Sebden Steel

With service centres throughout the UK, Sebden Steel is strategically placed to supply a variety of steel products to a range of industries including agriculture, automotive, construction and engineering. Covering the North East region from Newton Aycliffe, Carl Green, Divisional Director, appreciates in the current economic climate demands on staff are especially challenging.

In November 2007 Darren Newton joined ITEC after deciding not to continue studying for AS Level Further Maths and ICT at Sixth Form, in favour of vocational training and an Apprenticeship in Business and Administration. In May 2008 Darren successfully secured a work placement with Sebden Steel, quickly proving himself to be hard working and enthusiastic, resulting in an offer of employment in just five months. Darren has become a valued team member, willing to take on new and diverse tasks in his role as Stock Controller/Commercial Trainee, with his IT expertise in particular demand from his colleagues.

It's the variety of day-to-day tasks undertaken by Darren that's seen him complete his level 2 qualification and now able to complete his Advanced Apprenticeship in record time. Darren submits evidence to his assessor, Marie Weddell, 24/7 with Learning Assistant, a user-friendly online e-portfolio and assessment system. Marie emails feedback, advice and guidance, releasing time to assess evidence during her visits to Darren. This experience is far removed from that of Darren's line manager, Carl who completed an old style paper based Apprenticeship with ITEC and now thoroughly endorses e-learning with its' simplification of the NVQ process.