Requiring a high level of physical skill and business acumen, running a window fitting company can be extremely difficult, which is why many double glazing installers offer apprenticeships.
Apprenticeships are a great way for businesses to contribute to the next generation of industry professionals, whilst profiting from them at the same time.
Not only do apprentices offer a spare set of hands to businesses, but they also provide a fresh set of eyes regarding ways to improve the business, such as developing relationships with uPVC manufacturers and suggesting new and innovative services.
Here at TruFrame, we’d recommend taking on a window fitter apprentice in your business for many different reasons (which we will discuss in this article).
Are you looking for advice on how to become a window fitter apprentice? If so, feel free to skip to the relevant section you need.
Hiring a window fitter apprentice
Most double glazing companies have a highly-skilled workforce that has developed its expertise through years of experience.
By hiring an apprentice, businesses are able to give young professionals the skills they need to succeed in a competitive industry by allowing them to learn from the best.
On top of this, businesses can profit greatly from investing in an apprentice.
Teaching young, keen minds the tricks of the trade early in their career will get them off to a running start, and give businesses the best possible future if the apprentice is taken on full time.
It may even help motivate staff who are teaching the young apprentice, as they see the enthusiasm and determination to learn all there is to know about uPVC installation.
How to hire a window fitter apprentice
Opening a vacancy for an apprentice isn’t much different to opening a standard job vacancy.
You will first want to look at local apprenticeship providers who specialise in courses related to window installation.
Once agreed with the apprenticeship provider, you can start promoting the vacancy. This could be through the careers section on your own website, social media, or job advertisement websites, such as Indeed.
Once the advertisements are live and the applications come flooding in, uPVC companies can expect to start reaping the rewards of taking on an apprentice.
You can find out more about employing an apprentice on the Government website.
Becoming a window fitter apprentice
How you can become a window fitter apprentice
We work with many double glazing companies up and down the country, some of whom offer various apprenticeship placements and schemes.
We would recommend finding a local double glazing installer near you and seeing if they have any current opportunities.
Generally speaking, if you are wanting to apply for an apprenticeship within the double glazing industry, you will need relevant certifications and grades.
GSCEs grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) is usually the most you will need for an advanced apprenticeship, whereas intermediate level apprenticeships often require less.
You will also need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card in order to work on a construction site, but most of the time the company you apply to (as well as the college you’re taking your apprenticeship through) will help you obtain this.
And whilst the college and your employer will not expect you to know how to do the job straight away, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn can help you on the path to becoming an employed and fully qualified window fitter. For more information on the job specifics, visit national careers to get a feel for the job and the industry before you take the plunge.
