Local MP films with Leicester College apprentices

Michael Smith Switchgear welcomed The Rt Hon Liz Kendall MP on a site visit to meet Leicester College apprentices for filming ahead of the Labour Party Conference.

Liz is the UK Government’s Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, and is also the MP for Leicester West, in whose constituency the company is located.

Michael Smith Switchgear is based on the Braunstone Frith Industrial Estate, from where it manufactures, installs and maintains low-voltage switchgear and control panels for clients throughout the UK.

The company - which received the King’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development earlier this year - currently employs eight apprentices and is working with Leicester College to recruit five new apprentices for its 2025 intake. Michael Smith Switchgear apprentice Charles Ashwell recently became the first person to complete Leicester College’s 42-month Level 3 Engineering Fitter course.

Liz was filming a series of short films for the annual Labour Party Conference, being held this year in Liverpool from 28 September to 1 October. These films aim to show how important apprenticeships are to providing young people with career opportunities and for the economy overall.

Liz Kendall said: “It is brilliant to see local businesses supporting young people through quality apprenticeship programmes with the college – making a difference to the individuals, the business, and the city.”

Shabir Ismail, Principal/CEO at Leicester College, added: “We were delighted to hear that some of our apprentices will be showcased on such a prestigious national level at the annual conference, talking about their respective apprenticeship journeys with one of our key employers, Michael Smith Switchgear.”

Sean Smith, Managing Director of Michael Smith Switchgear, said: “It was great to welcome Liz on site again, and also that she remains so interested in learning about our apprentices.

“There are lots of opportunities out there for young people who want to work with their hands while manufacturing essential products needed across the UK.

“The UK manufacturing sector continues to face challenges in finding people with the required skills - apprenticeships present fantastic career opportunities for those prepared to commit.”

Liz’s team also visited neighbouring AVW Fabrications, which provides metal fabrication services to a wide range of customers.

Emily Smith, Managing Director of AVW Fabrications, said: “We are very proud of our apprentices, and we’re looking forward to seeing them speaking with Liz about their work as part of the film.”