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Will Messenger, at South West electrical wholesaler Devondale, is one of the first in the country to complete the new Trade Supplier Apprenticeship, and he’s done it with flying colours.

Passing a Level 2 apprenticeship is equivalent to 5 GCSEs. But, even more impressively, Will was awarded top marks in his final exams to achieve a distinction. This means he not only passed every component but also exceeded expectations in some assessed components.

Most popular apprenticeship for EDA members

Created by wholesalers for wholesalers, and launched in England in April 2018, the Trade Supplier Apprenticeship Standard offers businesses in England access to professional training in all aspects of today’s merchant operation.

Since launch it has become the most popular apprenticeship option for those EDA members using the EDA’s Apprenticeship Service delivered by partners EDA Apprenticeships Plus.

Permanent job for Will

Will sat the exams in August and didn’t learn about his success until he returned from holiday. He was then offered a full-time job at Devondale’s Torquay branch and is now part-way through his three month probation period.

He says is looking forward to becoming a permanent member of the team.

“It’s a good atmosphere to work in and I enjoy getting to know customers and be able to advise them.
“I think that Devondale having younger employees like me is a good way of encouraging the next generation of electricians to become customers!”

Career launchpad

Devondale Managing Director, Paul Wood said:

“We’re all delighted for Will’s success and pleased that he wants to continue his journey with Devondale.

“Electrical wholesaling offers long-term career prospects – we’re always keen to hear from young people interested in joining us as apprentices.”

The Trade Supplier Apprenticeship is ideal for businesses like Devondale as it is tailored specifically for new recruits to B2B wholesalers or merchant businesses involved in selling goods and services between manufacturers and skilled trade customers.

Will’s apprenticeship was managed through the EDA’s Apprenticeship Service, which is delivered by partners EDA Apprenticeships Plus.

To find out how the EDA Apprenticeship Service can benefit your business call the EDA head office on 020 3141 7350.