Global dairy company, Arla Foods, has taken positive action to address the current truck driver shortage in the UK, by embarking on a programme of LGV Apprenticeships delivered by TRS Training Ltd.
Arla Foods is the world’s largest producer of organic dairy products and is owned by the farmers who produce most of its milk. The company prides itself on a progressive attitude toward all areas of its business operations; not least its supply chain.
Arla chose TRS Training for the recruitment of 12 new trainee drivers. This is in line with Arla’s creation of the Driver Academy as part of the company’s long-term strategic plan, ensuring that it continues to deliver on its promises to its customers, whilst also widening the scope of its talent pool.
TRS will deliver the training via virtual classes, and regional trainers will visit the individuals on-site for quarterly reviews.
LGV Apprenticeships Standard
Individuals will leave the course as a fully-qualified LGV C+E driver with a fully rounded knowledge of the industry, covering the modules listed below:
- Revision for the CPC modules (theory, hazard perception and case studies test)
- Drivers hours and regulations
- Preparation of the vehicle
- Planning of delivery
- Safe and efficient driving
- Safe use of equipment
- Using technology
- Protection for the driver, vehicle and load
- Awareness of own role
- Building relationships with customers and colleagues
- Maths and English (if required)
Funding advantages
Arla welcomed the recent announcement that funding for LGV/HGV Apprenticeships is being increased to £7,000 from 1st August. This will cover the costs of Cat C+E licence acquisition as standard, as well as Cat C.
However, as one of many companies who pay the apprenticeship levy, Arla’s costs will be covered in full. It is also eligible for the government’s current recruitment bonus of £3k for every apprentice it recruits before the end of September.
Progressive business model
TRS director, Kevin Birch, is delighted to be working with Arla Foods. He comments:
“At TRS, we thrive on working with companies who share a vision for the future growth of UK industry through apprenticeships. Arla Foods are constantly moving forward and they fully recognise the essential role of apprentices during this unprecedented time of economic and logistical change.
Arla, by its own admission, is driven by a high-performing, ambitious culture. It focuses on growing not only its business, but also its colleagues. At TRS, we are perfectly placed to take this inspirational work ethic, and to give Arla’s new recruits the skills and knowledge they need in order to run with it. We are all very much looking forward to seeing the results.”
For more information on LGV Apprenticeships, please contact Kevin Birch on 07788 120 608.
