Please read below the article in 'Skills Insight' magazine (Spring 2009), where Code Security Systems is featured as a case study:

Apprenticeships - Case study   'A number of employers within the security sector have already discovered the benefits of apprenticeships, James Oliver, Proprietor of Code Security Systems Ltd, London, is just one of them.

James first launched Code Security Systems in 2005 and currently has 7 employees. At 16 years of age, James decided he would like to undertake an apprenticeship programme, as it seemed the ideal way to learn a trade and achieve both practical skills and academic qualifications. He was always interested in electronics and felt that this industry would offer long term prospects. He went to Waltham Forest College (who still offer apprenticeships) one day a week to learn the theoretical knowledge of security systems and then applied this knowledge in a practical way in the workplace. His colleagues were really supportive and he was even able to ask their advice on some of his college work.

"For a young man my apprenticeship gave me the accreditation that was invaluable for my experience in the industry, it gave me the confidence and skills I needed to progress. I worked my way from a trainee engineer to a qualified engineer, from there I learnt about the sales of security systems then went on to start my own company", says the 27 year old from London.

"It's not always easy in this industry to commit to investing in skills and training for staff but the apprenticeship scheme makes it affordable. I believe that Apprenticeships are of benefit to both employers and school leavers who wish to progress in this sector. I currently employ two apprentices because it is a way for me to train engineers to the standards that I expect within my organisation, without them having picked up bad habits from previous employment.
The programme motivates young people to work hard and to succeed and as I tell my apprentices 'the more you learn, the more you earn.' They know if they do well there will be opportunities for career progression.
Having qualified engineers is certainly a selling point for my organisation as my customers view my investment in my employees as extremely positive."

Skills for Security offer an apprenticeship programme in the security systems sector. This apprenticeship programme is available for all ages and is applicable for both large and small organisations. Skills for Security will make the arrangements with the college, deal with the administration of the scheme and look at funding options for you. so that you are free to manage your business.'

If you are interested please contact the Skillls for Security Customer Service team on 0845 075 0111 or e-mail info@sikillsforsecurity.org.uk for further information.