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Many of the things that we use,
and possibly take for granted, are made by hundreds
of different industries in the UK. Examples include
food and drink, textiles, aeroplanes, motor vehicles,
steel, pharmaceutical products, electrical and
electronic goods, clothing and footwear, chemicals
and furniture.
The manufacturing industry employs
people with a range of skill levels. They include
operatives, who carry out routine but vital roles,
skilled craftspeople, technicians and technologists.
The manufacturing sector also employs professional
engineers, designers, scientists and creative craft
workers.
With this
Apprenticeship, you will develop skills in a
range of activities, including cutting, shaping,
building assemblies and processing products.
Skills involved could include forming/moulding,
finishing and joining, and can relate to a diverse
range of products.
Working hours vary between industries,
but are usually around 38 hours per week. A number
of jobs involve shift work and some can be part
time. Most manufacturing takes place in clean,
modern conditions, but some is carried out in conditions
that can be hot, noisy or dusty. Work may be carried
out in large factories that are airy and full of
noisy production lines, or in small workshops that
make specialised items.
The industry employs around three
million people, which is around 10.5 per cent of
everyone working in the UK. Employers vary from
small specialist companies to large international
groups, with the trend in the UK being towards
smaller specialised production. Manufacturing takes
place throughout the UK. Some industries are concentrated
in specific areas (eg ceramics around Stoke-on-Trent
and footwear around Northamptonshire).
The manufacturing industry is
constantly changing as it meets the challenge of
tough competition from overseas markets, where
labour costs are often cheaper. Industries such
as shipbuilding, textiles and motor vehicle manufacture
have declined, while other industries, such as
biotechnology, aerospace and pharmaceuticals, are
growing. The expanding industries tend to require
more highly-skilled workers.
Operatives and craftspeople should
have practical hand skills for using tools and
machinery. Technicians and technologists require
not only practical skills, but also scientific
understanding and good technical knowledge of the
particular industry.
Call us for further details on 0800 542 2848 |
