Apprentice Evening West Notts College March 2026

We had a fantastic (and very busy) evening at the Apprentice Event with Vision West Nottinghamshire College .
The response this year has been our strongest yet, and we’re excited to be recruiting for our September intake.
We are currently offering Apprenticeship opportunities in:

: Electrical Panel Building x 10 positions
: Metal Fabrication (Welder) x 1 position

Many of our team members started as Apprentices and have gone on to build long-term careers with us, progressing into senior roles and even director level, or developing into different areas of the business.

If you’re looking to start your career with a company that values growth, development, and opportunity, we’d love to hear from you.
Minimum entry qualifications are GCSE Level 4 (Grade C) in Maths and English Language. Please visit West Notts College website for application details:

Apprentice application information

AF CareersMarch 17, 2026March 20, 2026

Apprentice Metal Fabricator Level 3

Purpose of the Position:

This apprenticeship is in conjunction with West Notts College leading to a qualification in Metal Fabrication.

Duties and Responsibilities include but are not exclusive to:

Structure, properties and characteristics of common metals.
Looking at typical problems which may arise.
Approved diagnostic methods.
Importance of using approved processes.
How roles and functions in the organisation interact.
The need to continually review fabrication and general engineering processes in workplace meetings.
Tools and techniques for cutting, shaping, assembling and finishing materials.
Pattern development processes, tooling and equipment, cutting and forming techniques.
Assembly, finishing and inspection techniques.
Factors influencing selection of forming process and principles, procedures, and testing of different joint techniques.
Using equipment associated with manual or mechanised joining techniques including maintenance and consumables.
Effects of heating and cooling metals.
How to interpret relevant engineering data and documentation.
Attend college and produce work of a high standard.
To adhere to the Job Pack information, including signing Job Pack forms.
To refer to and follow the Company Personnel Instructions where appropriate.
To remain on the job in a productive role.
To assist the Works Supervisor, Lead Operative and mentors.
To listen to the mentors and develop skills.
To inform Works Supervisor, Lead Operative and mentors of any urgently required equipment, concerns regarding parts/build/ people/equipment.
To effectively maintain the tidiness, safety and cleanliness of the work areas.
As required sign for the receipt of delivered goods, deliver goods to the required area, forward any signed paperwork to the Works Supervisor.
Ensure full compliance with the company’s Business Management System within your area of responsibility.

Essential Qualifications / Experience :

Minimum GCSE Level 4 (Grade C) in Maths and English Language
Good attention to detail
Self-motivated and reliable
Genuine interest in this field of manufacturing

For more information on this apprenticeship and application details please visit:

Metal Fabricator Apprenticeship Level 3

Internal NewsFebruary 13, 2026February 13, 2026

Apprentice of the Year 2025

🎉 Apprentice of the Year 2025 🎉

In line with National Apprenticeship Week we are proud to announce ‘Reuben Lowe’ as our AF Switchgear Apprentice of the Year 2025.

Reuben is in the final stages of his apprenticeship, and this award is thoroughly deserved. He has grown enormously during his time with us — professionally, personally, and as a valued team member — and has a very bright future ahead at AF Switchgear.

We’d also like to recognise all of our apprentices for their continued hard work and commitment.

A special mention to Vision West Nottinghamshire College who we work alongside on our Apprenticeship Scheme, and to Protrade Tools & Fixings for supporting our Apprentice of the Year — thank you for your continued support.

Internal NewsOctober 22, 2025October 22, 2025

Powering the next generation of Engineers

⚡ Powering the next generation of engineers! ⚙️

⭐ We’re incredibly proud to officially launch the AF Switchgear Academy in partnership with Vision West Nottinghamshire College.

A huge thank you to everyone who made Monday’s launch such a success — from our colleagues and college partners to local employers, industry representatives, and all who attended. Your support means a lot. 🙌

This collaboration marks another exciting step in developing local engineering talent and creating real opportunities for the next generation to build their careers in the switchgear industry. ⚙️

We’re looking forward to welcoming more students through the Academy and helping shape the future of our sector — together. 🔩 🤝

Application process:

The Academy will be delivered in partnership with Vision West Nottinghamshire College therefore you MUST be a current full time student at the college to be eligible to apply for the academy course.

The course involves:

A dedicated 5-day training programme.
Based around non-college days.
Course is college and site based, at our Facility.
Training is AF Switchgear certified.

In collaboration with Vision West Notts College the Training Academy offers a great opportunity to explore the opportunities available within the switchgear industry and to experience how AF Switchgear, the largest privately owned Switchgear manufacturer in the UK is embracing future challenges.

Please contact dbunting@afswitchgear.co.uk for an application form

Internal NewsOctober 14, 2025October 14, 2025

From Apprentice to Full time Contracts

😊 We are proud to celebrate a fantastic milestone at AF Switchgear — three of our apprentices have now successfully completed their four-year apprenticeship and have been offered full-time contracts with us! 👏

Two will be continuing their careers as Electrical Fitters, and one will be joining our Site Services team as an Electrical Fitter.

This is a huge achievement and a real credit to their hard work, dedication, and the support of our training and mentoring teams.

We are incredibly proud of what they’ve accomplished and look forward to seeing their careers continue to grow and flourish here at AF Switchgear for many years to come. 🚀

Congratulations to all three — great work! 🎉

Internal NewsSeptember 9, 2025September 9, 2025

Apprentice Intake 2025

🌟 Investing in the Next Generation at AF Switchgear Ltd 🌟

This week we proudly welcomed our latest cohort of apprentices. 🧑🏼‍🎓👩🏻‍🎓

Since 1981, our apprenticeship scheme has been at the heart of AF Switchgear, providing young people with the skills, experience, and confidence to build long and rewarding careers in our industry.

This year marks our largest intake yet:

• 10 × Electrical Panel Builders ⚡️
• 1 × Metal Fabricator ⚙️
• 1 × Business Support Apprentice 📧
• 2 × Accounts Assistants 🧾

Through our valued partnership with Vision West Nottinghamshire College, our apprentices benefit from a blend of classroom learning and real-world experience, supported every step of the way by our expert teams.

💡 A special thank you goes to TLA Distribution Ltd and Cembre Group for equipping our apprentices with the tools and CPD-accredited training that ensure AF Switchgear continues to deliver industry-leading quality.

At AF Switchgear, we believe apprenticeships are more than just training — they are an investment in people, innovation, and the future of UK engineering. We wish each and every one of our new Apprentices the very best of luck in their journey with us. 🍀

Here’s to supporting the next generation of talent! ⭐️

Internal NewsApril 15, 2025April 15, 2025

Apprentice Evening 2025

Annual Apprentice Evening – Inspiring the Next Generation

We recently hosted our annual Apprentice Evening, welcoming students who are interested in pursuing an apprenticeship with us. This event continues to grow in popularity year after year—a reflection of the strong reputation our apprenticeship program has built since its inception in 1981. In fact, we are proud to say that our very first apprentice is still a valued member of our team today!

Our Apprentice Evening offers an excellent opportunity for students, along with their parents or guardians, to gain insight into what we do. Attendees were able to speak with current apprentices, engage with managers from various departments, explore the products we manufacture, and connect with representatives from West Nottinghamshire College, our long-standing training partner.

Apprenticeship Opportunities for This Year:

•Electrical Panel Builder – 10 positions

•Welder / Fabricator – 3 positions

•Finance Assistant – 1 position

•Central Services – 1 position

All applications must be submitted via the West Nottinghamshire College website:

https://www.wnc.ac.uk/Apprenticeships/

We look forward to welcoming a new group of talented apprentices into our business and continuing to support the development of future industry professionals.

AF CareersFebruary 25, 2025March 3, 2025

Apprentice Business Support x1

Purpose of the Position:

To work in conjunction with West Notts College (WNC) to attain a qualification in Customer Services, whilst providing all round support to the AF Group.

AF Group will support the right candidate in either a Level 2 or 3 apprenticeship / qualification with WNC.

Duties and Responsibilities:

To undertake day to day business support services to ensure the efficient running of the department.
Administrative tasks on in-house systems and databases
Daily maintenance, cleaning, re-stocking of kitchen areas
Handle internal mail delivery and collection, ensuring timely distribution of mail throughout the organisation. This includes multiple visits to all departments on a daily basis
Filing / archiving of accounting paperwork, quotes, contracts etc.
To cover front of house (reception) as and when required
Assist Engineering in the supply of contract / site / work files
Maintaining catering supplies in all departments
Maintaining stationery supplies in all Departments
Scanning documents
Assist Business Support Services dependent on work level and holiday periods
Create switchboard labels as required
Share telephone answering role with Receptionist and ensure that telephone is answered promptly
Assist as necessary re. provision of catering requirements (staff / visitors / meetings / buffets etc.)
Carry out general administration and other duties as delegated b y Central Services Manager / Central Services Director.
Attend meetings as required / requested
CSD KPI’s
Achieve qualification milestones and attain required grade
Comply with BS EN ISO 9001 quality system
Actively promote team working and the successful operation, maintenance / creation of applicable procedures, standards and work instructions.
Responsibility for complying with and implementing the business management system within their area of activity

Reporting to:

Central Services Manager

Hours of Work:

08:30 – 17:00 Monday to Thursday. 08:30 – 16:00 Friday.

Essential Qualifications / Experience :

Maths / English GCSE Grade 4 (C)
Customer service skills
Administration skills
A team player with a flexible and positive attitude to work
Good communication skills and attention to detail
Professional attitude
Ability to adapt to business needs and follow instruction
Good IT skills
Ability to work independently and as part of the team
Organisational skills

Desirable but not Essential :

Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)

If you would like to be considered for this role, please apply via this link:

Apprentice Business Support

Internal NewsFebruary 18, 2025March 18, 2025

Apprentice Intake 2025

🙌🏼 Exciting News – Our 2025 Apprentice Intake is Now Open!

Following the success of National Apprenticeship Week, we are delighted to announce that applications for our 2025 apprenticeship intake are now live.

At AF Switchgear, we are committed to developing the next generation of skilled professionals, and we are currently recruiting for the following apprenticeship roles:

🔢 Accounts Assistant x1
💼 Business Support x1
⚡ Electrical Panel Builder x10
👨🏼‍🏭 Metal Fabricator x3

All positions will be based at our Headquarters in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, with apprentices attending Vision West Nottinghamshire College (WNC) for their academic studies.

To learn more visit our careers section on our website:
CAREERS

Below you will find the application links via West Notts College.

Apprentice Accounts Assistant
ACCOUNTS ASSISTANT

Apprentice Business Support

BUSINESS SUPPORT

Apprentice Electrical Panel Builder
ELECTRICAL PANEL BUILDER

Apprentice Metal Fabricator
METAL FABRICATOR

Don’t miss this opportunity to kickstart your career with us!

AF CareersFebruary 18, 2025February 18, 2025

Apprentice Accounts Assistant x1

Purpose of the Position:

To work in conjunction with West Notts College (WNC) to attain a qualification in accounting and finance, whilst providing all round support to the Finance Team for the AF Group.

AF Group will support the right candidate in either a Level 2 or 3 apprenticeship / qualification with WNC.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Assist GFD / Finance Manager in accounts administration ensuring deadlines are met.
Carry out regular reconciliations i.e. bank, nominal.
Filing / archiving of accounting paperwork.
Collation of non-conformance records, updating supplier master records and marrying credit notes where necessary.
Assisting in purchase ledger, sales ledger and nominal ledger duties.
Assist with any general office duties as requested by GFD / FM.
Attend meetings as required / requested.
Comply with BS EN ISO 9001 quality system.
Actively promote team working and the successful operation, maintenance / creation of applicable procedures, standards and work instructions.
Assist with the preparation of the Group accounts.
Responsibility for complying with and implementing the business management system within their area of activity.

Reporting to:

Finance Manager

Hours of Work:

08:30 – 17:00 Monday to Thursday. 08:30 – 16:00 Friday.

Essential Qualifications / Experience :

Maths / English GCSE Grade 4 (C) or above
Willingness to learn
Self-motivated
Numeracy skills
Good IT Skills
Written and verbal communication skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Organisational skills

Desirable but not Essential :

Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)

If you would like to be considered for this role, please apply via the link below:

Apprentice Accounts Assistant