This year, the company is aiming to recruit up to 20 driver apprentices, as well as 15 workshop and office-based apprentices to add to its 1,350-strong UK workforce.
Downton’s apprenticeship scheme has a retention rate of over 95%. Driver apprentices undergo an intensive year-long training course and most are driving within three months.
During the event, held at Downton’s Moreton Valence HQ, potential apprentices received a tour of the site and met representatives from the Freight Transport Association, DAF Trucks dealership Imperial Commercials and LGS Transport Training.
The scheme is open to applicants who are aged 18 or over and hold a full category B car licence with zero penalty points. Many of the young people present at the open day will now be invited to a formal assessment before the company selects the successful candidates.
Andy Downton, managing director of CM Downton, said: “We believe in developing young talent and we were very impressed with the number of very good candidates that attended on Saturday.
“We are not looking for the finished article at this stage, but we do want people with the right attitude who are willing to put their heart and soul into their work and take full advantage of the fantastic opportunities our apprenticeship schemes offer.”