Co-op’s apprenticeships scheme shortlisted for two national awards

The East of England Co-op has been shortlisted for two national industry awards for its apprenticeships programme.

The East of England Co-op is shortlisted in the Best Talent Development Programme and Best Apprenticeship Programme categories at the Training Journal Awards. The prestigious awards recognise the hard work of learning and development professionals from around the world.

The scheme was developed to help the East of England Co-op, the largest independent retailer in East Anglia, to attract, develop and retain talented local people. The bespoke programme has seen 100% retention of colleagues who have completed an apprenticeship, with 77% promoted into more senior roles and a further 30% going on to enrol in higher level apprenticeships. So far, 14 apprenticeships have been completed with a further 35 currently being undertaken.

Stephen Flurrie, Head of Learning and Development at the East of England Co-op said: “We have worked hard to create a fair programme which helps local people carve out a rewarding career with us in retail, and in turn ensures we have a talented and passionate workforce that live co-operative values. It has genuinely created a positive culture of learning in the business and employees are queuing up to take part. We are very grateful for the national recognition for our programme.”

One of the apprentices on the scheme commented: “Without the apprenticeship I would not have had this opportunity to learn and grow as a person. I have learnt a lot of skills and knowledge and put them to good use. I would always highly recommend the apprenticeship scheme to anyone, as I feel it is a fantastic opportunity for education and growth within the East of England Co-op.”

Last year, the East of England Co-op won Team of the Year at the Training Journal Awards from over 260 entrants. It also received a Silver Award for Best Organisational Development Programme.

For more information on the East of England Co-op’s apprenticeship scheme, visit www.eastofengland.coop/apprenticeships.