Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre praised for giving youngsters a chance

APPRENTICES from Rotherham’s trail-blazing Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) Training Centre have praised the chance it gives them to learn hands-on.
Abbie PlummerAbbie Plummer
Abbie Plummer

Abbie Plummer (18) is an electrical and mechanical maintenance apprentice with Symphony Group at the centre near Catcliffe and turned to apprentices after finding she was not enjoying classroom work in the sixth form.

“It wasn't my way of learning — I like practical learning,” said Abbie, from Brinsworth.

“I have always had an interest in engineering and 'making things'. When I was younger my Grandad, who was a steel engineer, had a shed full of tools and machinery. 

“I used to spend hours playing and building things in there. 

“Through my apprenticeship I'm developing hands-on skills and gaining industry experience.

"I love what I do now. I would not want to do anything else.”

She opted against following in the footsteps of most of her family by going to university and instead secured an apprenticeship.

“An apprenticeship always appealed to me more than university,” said Heidi. “I am working and earning a decent wage but also learning skills I need for my career.

“I feel an apprenticeship can give you a head start, I'll be able to hit the ground running when I have finished my training.

“I have also been able to do some great things since I started at the AMRC Training Centre — I have met Nicola Sturgeon, the leader of the SNP, I was able to attend the event announcing McLaren coming to South Yorkshire.”