A group of apprentices

For many small to medium-sized business owners, closing the skills gap is a top priority in the quest to keep their business moving.

A survey by the Open University Business Barometer has revealed that companies are turning to work-based training and employment schemes to address the issue, and with great success.

SDE Technology, a leading manufacturer of metal pressings and assemblies, is a prime example of this. The Shropshire-based firm is known for its cutting-edge technologies but it’s also ahead of the curve with regard to attracting, training and retaining new talent with its own on-site training centre.

Since its launch in 2017, the centre, which takes on apprentices and equips them with the skills to work in manufacturing as they gain new qualifications, has seen 12 apprentices pass through its doors — many of whom have gone on to hold management positions within the company. Currently, it has three apprentices in engineering roles across the business, with four more joining in the next cohort.

Work-based training, such as

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