To mark the beginning of National Apprentice Week, Opus Energy has announced the launch of a bespoke NVQ Apprenticeship Scheme.

Northampton-based Opus Energy has partnered with one of the UK’s biggest providers, First4Skills, to launch the scheme. The apprenticeship scheme is designed to assist Opus Energy in recruiting and training individuals looking to work in the energy sector. Five apprenticeships across two key roles within Opus Energy will be awarded.

Annamarie Petsis Jones, Head of HR, Learning and Development at Opus Energy, commented on the launch: “We're very excited about our new NVQ Apprenticeship Scheme, which we hope will bring new, local talent into the company.

“We're looking for a complete range of applicants, so not just school leavers but anyone with a genuine interest in working in the energy sector, a true passion for excellent customer service and an ambition to learn and develop within Opus Energy.”

Each of the NVQ Diploma’s offered by Opus Energy have been specifically designed to meet the company’s requirements. Opus Energy has also pledged to monitor the progress of the apprentices, offering them the opportunity to move on to an NVQ Level 3 after completion of the probationary period.

The company has also recently introduced a Management Development Programme as a further incentive for those looking to break into the energy sector and climb to a senior management position.

Charlie Crossley Cooke, Managing Director of Opus Energy, said: “We are entering another exciting year of planned growth, and this could not have been achieved without our employees. Our aim is to be one of the best employers in the energy sector, and our recent Best Companies award demonstrates the commitment Opus Energy shows to its workforce. We believe that these new qualifications will help our employees excel in their roles and move up the ladder.”

Clare Green, Account Director at First4Skills, added: “First4Skills is delighted to be working in partnership with Opus Energy to be able to support all employees, currently and in the future, by giving them access to a wide range of nationally recognised qualifications. These will bring out the best in Opus Energy employees, making the most of their potential, and in doing so will provide the building blocks for a stronger, more successful business.”