Kitchen firm to recruit

YOUNG TALENT Apprentices Josh Smith, Laura Brentnall, Calum Gardiner, Toni Larkin, Jerome Austin and Gemma Gibson.

Rixonway Kitchens, which employs almost 500 people at its Dewsbury factory, has pledged to take on another six apprentices in the coming year across schemes in its accounts, administration, internal sales and IT departments.

The firm has employed more than 10 apprentices on its schemes to date, with seven trainees gaining permanent positions in accounts, administration, transport, maintenance and purchasing.

Chief executive Paul Rose said: “With unemployment among young people still so high, we are delighted to be able to support young people in the local community.

“Our courses benefit both apprentices and the company – they get a great opportunity to learn key skills and study for a qualification and we get enthusiastic young people who are committed to working hard and learning on the job, helping us maintain our competitive edge.”

Apprentice Laura Brentnall, who joined the firm in September, said: “The company’s commitment to training and providing apprenticeships means I have the opportunity to take an alternative route into employment and gain key skills which are crucial to my long-term career.”