This autumn saw a new milestone reached in the development of the in-house Claas Apprenticeship Scheme when for the first time new apprentices not only from England, Wales and Ireland as previously, but also Scotland, came together and were welcomed to the Claas Academy at Saxham for their Apprentice Induction and the start of their first 3-week training block.

Claas say they are the only UK machinery manufacturer to deliver a specific in-house apprenticeship under one roof. This year’s cohort is made up of 22 students from 10 Claas dealerships who over the next four years will study for a Level 3 Apprenticeship Standard in Land-Based Service Engineering Technician. Their training will be delivered by dedicated trainers, alongside specialist product trainers from the main Academy.

During that time, they will study in the Academy at Saxham, with its purpose built facilities that include specialist fabrication, engine workshops and classrooms.

The high level of training provided by the manufacturer at the Academy was recently recognised by Ofsted, who in their first routine inspection praised both the facility, which they described as being 'outstanding', but also the trainers who were praised for the technical skills and their ability to impart their knowledge to the students.

The 22 students come from 10 dealerships: Claas Western (Frome, Dorchester & Evesham), Claas Eastern (Sleaford & Brigg), Claas Manns (Saxham, Norfolk & Market Harborough), Olivers (Luton & Petworth), Rickerby (Hexham, Alnwick & Burscough), Gordons (Castle Douglas, Berryhill & Strathaven), Sellars (Perth, Stirling, & Forres/Invergordon), Morris Corfield (Broseley), Sharnford Tractors and Erwin.