A Bradford engineering firm has demonstrated its commitment to developing young engineers following the toughest trading period for 50 years offering apprenticeships.

Recruitment of two more trainees by Siemens Mechanical Drives at its Leeds Road, Thornbury, plant coincides with the launch of a new badge scheme recognising firms that employ apprentices.

The two apprentices have increased the number at the Siemens factory, which assembles and repairs Flender gear units, to five. Richard Heaton and James Perigo will spend their first year at Bradford College studying mechanical engineering, with the following three years of factory-based learning.

Three Siemens students are working through their second and fourth years. Mike Peate has started his fourth year and the second year of his HNC studies, while Adam France and Richard Birkbeck are working on the shopfloor following their year at college but still attending Bradford College on day-release..

Siemens said recruiting Richard and James underlined its commitment to training young engineers.

The students’ mentor is Richard Durham, who started as an apprentice 20 years ago at what was then Flender Power Transmission, and who is a team leader on the heavy fittings side.

He said: “Getting paid to learn a trade was crucially important to me, and it’s great that the company is continuing this tradition today.”

Technicians trained by Siemens in mechanical handling are employed all over the world. Bradford College curriculum team leader Geraldine McCallum, said “All five students who Siemens have recruited are positive role models for today’s engineers”.

The National Apprenticeship Service has launched a new employer badge to recognise those which train apprentices.

The scheme follows research which revealed that 75 per cent of people were more likely to use a business if it offered apprenticeships.

Nick Wilson, NAS regional director, said: “The badge scheme will demonstrate which businesses support young people through offering apprenticeships and will provide a service for consumers to choose..”

Information about the scheme is available at apprenticeships.org.uk or by calling 08000 150 600.