Latest News

A&R Elite Scaffolding: Investing in the Future with SIMIAN Apprenticeships

26th February 2025

At SIMIAN, we take immense pride in partnering with businesses that share our commitment to developing the next generation of scaffolding professionals. One such company is A&R Elite Scaffolding, a forward-thinking employer who recently joined our apprenticeship program. Their dedication to nurturing young talent and bridging the skills gap is commendable, and we’re delighted to spotlight their journey so far.

A Strong Start with SIMIAN

As a new employer of apprentices, A&R Elite Scaffolding has embraced the SIMIAN apprenticeship program with enthusiasm. Their experience so far has been overwhelmingly positive, with a close and supportive relationship established between them and our team.

“Really good, very close relationship with Sara. Anything I need, I can always contact her, and she will get back to me straight away,” they shared. Having reliable communication and dedicated support ensures that both employers and apprentices get the best possible experience from the program.

The Benefits of Taking on Apprentices

A&R Elite Scaffolding firmly believes in the long-term benefits of recruiting and developing young talent through apprenticeships, especially at an early age.

“The idea is to get them in at an early age, and they can then increase standards as they go through the programme and bring this new knowledge on site becoming an example for the rest of the business.”

By integrating apprentices into their workforce early, the company ensures they are well-trained, aligned with company values, and contribute to a high standard of work, setting a strong foundation for the future.

Supporting Apprentices from Day One

At A&R Elite Scaffolding, onboarding apprentices is a carefully structured process that prioritises community engagement and individual support.

“We are active in the local community, working with local authorities and job centres to gain new young talent. We have regular meetings with the apprentices before they join us, and these continue once they start to ensure they are comfortable.”

Their focus on recruiting school leavers and younger apprentices demonstrates a commitment to bridging the skills gap, providing an accessible route into the industry, and helping young individuals build rewarding careers from an early stage.

Advice for Other Businesses Considering Apprenticeships

For businesses considering taking on apprentices, A&R Elite Scaffolding emphasises the importance of gathering as much information as possible and involving key stakeholders in the recruitment process.

“I would say gain as much information as possible from as many different people as possible. Include all stakeholders in the interview process and understand the apprentice and their ambitions.”

They also highlight the personal satisfaction that comes from watching an apprentice grow and develop in their career. “It is really rewarding to see Joe, who is currently on the programme at SIMIAN LASC, progress at such an early stage of his career.”

What Makes SIMIAN Stand Out

A&R Elite Scaffolding praises SIMIAN’s consistent communication and reliability, describing the experience as seamless and supportive.

“I always receive instant communication – I email, they email back. I phoned they phone back. SIMIAN and Sara have good human values and do exactly what they say they are going to do.”

Having a trusted training provider that delivers on its promises is essential for businesses investing in apprenticeships, and we’re proud to be recognized for our commitment to both employers and apprentices alike.

A Partnership for the Future

When asked whether they would recommend SIMIAN’s apprenticeship program to other companies, A&R Elite Scaffolding’s response was resoundingly positive:

“For all of the reasons above. I would be more than happy to have a long-term partnership with them.”

Their collaboration with local job centres has also been invaluable in equipping apprentices with essential tools and PPE, ensuring they are work-ready from day one. They describe SIMIAN as a ‘one-stop-shop’ for all their training needs, reinforcing our mission to provide comprehensive support for both apprentices and employers.

We’re thrilled to see A&R Elite Scaffolding thriving as an apprentice employer and look forward to supporting their apprentices as they grow and develop. Their commitment to nurturing young talent and raising industry standards aligns with our vision at SIMIAN, and we’re excited about the future of this partnership.

If your business is considering taking on apprentices, get in touch with us today to find out how SIMIAN can support you every step of the way! Click here or email apprenticeships@simian-risk.com for more information.