Working in partnership with SEMTA and Further Education Colleges, the Welsh Government (part financed by the European Social Fund) introduced the PtA programme in 2009. The scheme is a chance for young people to learn skills and gain vital work experience, while giving employers an in-depth look at potential entrants to their industry and access to pre-trained, motivated young people.

The PtA Awards, which are organised by SEMTA, are part of the annual Engineering Employers Federation (EEF) Future Manufacturing Awards.

Neil Walters, production support manager at Schaeffler UK, received the Best Company Award on behalf of the company. He commented: “Pathway to Apprenticeships is a fantastic scheme and we are therefore delighted to have won the Best Company Award this year. As a manufacturer of automotive engine components, Schaeffler UK has always recognised the importance of investing in its people. It is essential that we have a highly skilled workforce, and apprentice programmes play a major part in meeting this need.”

Bill Peaper, national manager - Wales at SEMTA commented: “The awards recognise the hard work of the apprentices, companies and colleges in delivering this quality programme…Schaeffler UK’s production plant in Llanelli is now recognised as one of the leading lights in Wales in terms of the models and techniques it uses to train apprentices.”