COMMUNITY housing association Magna is looking to take on more West Somerset apprentices to celebrate National Apprenticeship Week and is offering tips on how young people can be successful.

Magna talent acquisition manager Dani Davies said: “We currently have 18 apprentices in business administration, IT systems, property maintenance, plumbing, and electrical apprenticeship, and later this year will be recruiting more.

“Apprenticeships are not an easy option, they are a lot of hard work.

“It is important to treat your application seriously and do your research, and, if you are offered an interview, make sure you arrive fully prepared.

“You do not need masses of work experience, we are just as interested in your personal qualities and interests.”

Magna’s experts offer this advice to youngsters applying for an apprenticeship:

  • Tell us about yourself, what has inspired you, and what you do in your spare time. School projects, hobbies, and family experiences can all help show your passion, curiosity, reliability, or creativity
  • Write a genuine personal statement (give AI a miss). Tempting as it is to use AI to write your personal statement, we can spot it a mile off. It is your voice we want to hear.
  • Spend time on a good covering letter. It gives us a feel for who you are, far more than a list of grades ever can. Think of it as a chance to speak directly to us before we meet.
  • Tell us why you want this opportunity. Whatever your education, experience, and background, tell us why you are applying. Show how you can bring benefit to the company.
  • Do not think apprenticeships are only for school leavers, we are here to help you develop your skills, it does not matter what age you are. If you are a younger applicant, do not let your parents apply on your behalf. We need to hear from you.
  • Get to know us before you apply. Be sure to do your research. Take time to look at our website, read our values, and understand our culture.
  • Think about your future with us. Know where you are heading. Our teams perform a huge range of different jobs, from electrical, plumbing, and other trade roles, to professional services positions in housing, customer service, finance, marketing, planning, legal, procurement, and more.

Ms Davies said: “We want to see the person behind the application, so we can understand what you are after and how we can help.”

Magna compliance manager Paul Purkis said: “We invest in apprentices in specialist areas where there are national skills shortages.

"Take our electrical and heating teams, for example.

“Since 2022, we have seen seven apprentices successfully complete apprenticeships in those areas and secure permanent positions with us.

“We have now expanded our commitment, creating eight new apprenticeship opportunities.”

Magna works with local colleges to make sure apprentices receive high quality technical and academic training.

The team also works with local contractors for training which falls outside Magna’s core areas of work, helping them to gain experience in specialist environments.