Bathroom manufacturer IBC Group has welcomed two apprentices to its Imperial Bathrooms brand, as part of the company’s efforts to attract new talent into the kbb sector.

(Left to right) Flynn Beddows and Michael Noakes

Flynn Beddows joins the company’s new Wood Division, while Michael Noakes joins the Ceramics Division.

Both will have the opportunity to learn from qualified craftsman across their respective discipline, while simultaneously studying to complete a Level 2 Engineering Operations Apprenticeship.

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The Level 2 qualification will see Flynn and Michael become accomplished at working safely in an engineering environment, carrying out tasks, operating machinery efficiently and effectively, as well as producing components to an extremely high standard.

Managing director at IBC Group, Graham Bucktrout said: “IBC Group is dedicated to creating opportunities for the next generation and we firmly believe that investing in future talent is vital, both as a means of supporting young people in the workplace and ensuring traditional trade-skills are kept alive.”

“The challenges currently facing the youth of today looking for employment have definitely been exacerbated by the Coronavirus pandemic.

“Added to that, Government figures show that 23,400 fewer people participated in an apprenticeship in 2019/20 when compared to 2018/19, which indicates that participation in these types of training schemes are in decline.

“This has worrying implications for the skills of our workforce, the preservation of traditional trades and by virtue, the future of our industry.

“At Imperial Bathrooms, we are built on tradition and fortunate to be able to provide our apprentices with access to highly skilled craftspeople, in both our Wood and Ceramic divisions, in order to broaden the experience of generations to come and finely hone their abilities.”

James Stevenson, creative director at Imperial Bathrooms added: “I am sure that both Flynn and Michael, will make the most of the opportunities that are now open to them, equipping them with the kind of practical knowledge they will need to embark on the next phase of their chosen career paths.

“I look forward to seeing them develop and progress over the coming months.”