City of Bristol College continues to strengthen its links with local employers, with Bristol-based business Lancer Scott praising the impact that apprenticeships have had on both its workforce and future growth.
Lancer Scott began working with the college in 2023 while recruiting for an Apprentice Electrician, an experience that quickly grew into a wider partnership covering both trade and office-based apprenticeship roles.
Reflecting on the start of the collaboration, a representative from Lancer Scott said: “My involvement with City of Bristol College began in May 2023, when we were searching for a suitable course for a newly recruited Apprentice Electrician. Through this process, I was introduced to Heather and our discussions soon expanded to include office-based apprenticeship roles.
“From the outset, Heather and her team stood out for their proactive approach and genuine commitment to supporting us in finding and developing apprentices.”
Since then, the business has gone on to recruit multiple apprentices with support from the college, citing the clear guidance and ongoing support provided throughout the process: “Our experience with City of Bristol College has been really positive. They supported us through the whole recruitment process, making it easy to find the right candidate and understand what was involved from our side.
“The team has always been approachable and quick to help whenever we’ve had questions. The ongoing support during the apprenticeship has helped our apprentices grow in confidence and develop the skills they need in the workplace. Because of this positive experience, we’ve just recruited our fourth office apprentice and look forward to continuing to work with the college!”
Lancer Scott has also seen clear benefits within the wider business, with apprentices contributing positively to team culture and long-term skills development: “Hiring apprentices has had a really positive impact on our workplace. They have brought fresh ideas, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn, which has been great for team morale and overall culture.
“As they develop their skills, we see our apprentices grow more confident and able to take on more responsibility. It has also encouraged the wider team to support, mentor and share knowledge, creating a more collaborative environment. Overall, having apprentices has strengthened our team and helped build skills for the future of the business.”
The business is now actively encouraging other employers to consider apprenticeships as a sustainable way to develop talent: “We definitely recommend hiring an apprentice to other businesses. Apprentices bring enthusiasm, fresh perspectives and a strong willingness to learn, while developing skills that are tailored to your business from the start. It is a great way to grow talent internally and build a motivated, loyal team for the future.”
For organisations new to apprenticeships, Lancer Scott emphasises the importance of taking a long-term view and working closely with the college: “For businesses considering their first apprentice, our advice would be to see it as a long-term investment. Provide clear support, regular feedback and opportunities to learn on the job.
“Working with City of Bristol College also makes a big difference; having that guidance in place helps make the process straightforward and rewarding for both the apprentice and the business.”
For a wealth of information regarding apprenticeships at City of Bristol College, simply click here.
