National IDW carrier, Tuffnells, has signed the first ever candidate to the Department for Education’s brand-new year-long Express Logistics Sortation Apprenticeship scheme. Atique Khan, known as ‘Tee’, joined Tuffnells via the Sector-Based Work Academy Programme, funded by the Department for Work and Pensions.

“I’m delighted to be introducing the sortation apprenticeship to Tuffnells. This qualification will be invaluable in attracting apprentices to our business as well as delivering key industry skills to our team members, as we continue to invest in our Green Shoots learning and development programme,” commented Sue Bancroft, HR Director of Tuffnells.

The Express Logistics Sortation Apprenticeship is funded by the Apprenticeship Levy and will see Tee commence a twelve-month course at West Thames College using course materials provided by the Institute of Couriers. The Tuffnells scheme will give Tee, and all future candidates, a natural path from Sector-Based Work Academy Programmes to apprenticeships in the logistics industry.

“The sortation apprenticeship with the SWAP course forms a seamless stairway into the express logistics sector. We’re delighted that Tuffnells have brought on the first candidate in what should develop into something very special for Express Logistics solutions and the next generation workforce,” added Tracy Aust, West Thames College principal.