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Find out about carers at CADSCADS develops skills of future generation with apprenticeship scheme
As the UK marks National Apprenticeship Week from 5 – 11 February 2024, retail space planning and surveying expert CADS is celebrating the successes of the award-winning young workforce enrolled on its apprenticeship scheme – and adding two new recruits to the team.
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Investing in the next generation
The government-run National Apprenticeship Week is an opportunity to celebrate the impact and achievements of apprentices around the country.
Great Yarmouth-based CADS has been investing in training the next generation on the specialist services its highly-skilled team delivers for the retail and measured surveying industry.
Pictured above: Duncan Nash, Apprentice Development Manager at TrAC presenting CADS’ apprentice, Emily Klumper with an “Apprentice of the month” award.
Six apprentices now employed at CADS
CADS’ apprenticeship scheme – launched in 2022 – now employs 6 young people – with two new apprentices already enrolled so far this year.
“We’re incredibly proud of the apprentices in our business. Our two newest Business Administrator apprentices – Axel and Callum – are already working closely with our retail team and being trained on AutoCAD. Another of our apprentices – Emily – recently won Apprentice of the Month with TrAC! It’s so rewarding to see how well they’re developing”
says Aaron Wright, Managing Director of CADS.
Multi-skilled learning
CADS’ skilled team provides retail space planning services and measured site surveys for clients across the UK and beyond. Its apprentices work on both sides of the business, learning a vast range of skills which will stand them in good stead throughout their careers.
On CADS’ retail team, apprentices work with household names in the retail industry. Alongside their studies, they learn how to use AutoCAD and plan and optimise store layouts using StoreSpace®, the innovative software from CADS’ sister company StoreSpace Insights,
With CADS Surveys measured survey team, apprentices learn practical geospatial surveying experience by working on-site of projects across the country – which also helps them develop a deeper understanding of the industry.
Developing new skills
“I’m really enjoying developing my skills with my apprenticeship at CADS. The practical experience and industry knowledge I’m gaining by working alongside the experienced CADS team is invaluable and will help me build my career going forward.”
says Lilly Thompson, Business Administrator apprentice at CADS.
It was in the autumn of 2022 that CADS set up its successful apprenticeship scheme to invest in the workforce of tomorrow.
However, this commitment to the young workforce has been important to CADS throughout its 40-year history. Back in 2018, CADS sponsored one of the UK’s first geospatial technician apprenticeships.
CADS’ new apprenticeship scheme
In the Autumn of 2022, CADS launched a new apprenticeship scheme to invest in the workforce of tomorrow. We welcomed two new starters, Lilly Thompson and Jack Prendergast to the company as Apprentice CAD Operators, based in the Great Yarmouth office.
Read insightWe’re proud to have been at the forefront of geospatial apprenticeships in the UK! It’s an ever-evolving industry, so it’s important to us to continue developing the skills of the future generation, particularly in analysing geospatial data using cutting edge digital technology.
Skills for life
“We’re proud to have been at the forefront of geospatial apprenticeships in the UK! It’s an ever-evolving industry, so it’s important to us to continue developing the skills of the next generation. This includes building expertise in analysing geospatial data using cutting-edge digital technology”.
adds Aaron.
CADS’ apprenticeship scheme is a rolling programme which recruits up to six apprentices each year. It focuses on providing apprentices with training in a wide range of skills. This includes software operation, data analysis and using surveying technology.
“The theme of this year’s National Apprenticeship Week is ‘Skills for Life’. The future of our industry lies with our young people – so equipping them with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive is vital”
concludes Aaron.
Developing future retail talent: in 2025
In November 2025, CADS proudly celebrated the successful completion of its retail space planning apprenticeship programme.
Axel Davenport and Callum Irving have now joined the company as full-time employees, having both completed a Level 3 Business Administrator apprenticeship. Axel continues to contribute to the Frasers Group team, while Callum remains a valued member of the Primark team.
Pete Humm, Head of Retail, highlighted their achievement, noting that:
“Their hard work has really paid off and Callum and Axel are now well and truly part of the CADS family.”
Reflecting on the experience, Axel Davenport said:
“My apprenticeship at CADS has been a fantastic experience. The team has supported me every step of the way, making me feel welcome throughout. I was provided valuable opportunities to learn, connect, and grow, helping me tackle new professional challenges. This created a strong start to my career and I’m grateful to everyone for their guidance and support.”
Callum Irving added:
“Thanks to my manager Pete and everyone else at CADS for your support! My time during the apprenticeship has been interesting and welcoming and I look forward to seeing what the future holds!”
Read more about the apprenticeship experience at CADS, from Callum’s perspective.
2026 Distinction in level 3 Geospatial Apprenticeship
In February 2026, CADS proudly celebrated the successful completion of Liam Franklin’s Distinction in his Level 3 Geospatial Technician apprenticeship.
The two-year programme combined on-the-job training with block release learning at Dudley College of Technology, equipping Liam with practical skills in geospatial surveying, data analysis, and survey services.
Throughout his apprenticeship, Liam demonstrated dedication and professionalism, applying his learning effectively on live projects. His achievement highlights both his hard work and CADS’ commitment to nurturing the next generation of skilled professionals.
Iain Tubby, Survey Services Manager at CADS, commented:
“Liam’s commitment and ability to apply his learning on real projects highlights the value of our apprenticeship programme. We are proud to support the next generation of skilled geospatial professionals.”
This milestone reflects CADS’ ongoing commitment to nurturing the next generation of skilled professionals. By providing a supportive apprenticeship environment, CADS develops technical expertise in retail space planning and geospatial surveying. This approach helps graduates build strong foundations for successful careers.
Apply to work at CADS
Interested in applying to work at CADS? Get in touch via hr@cadsonline.com – We are always interested to hear from talented and motivated individuals.
Get in touchFind out more about careers at CADS
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About CADS
CADS provides a comprehensive range of data-driven software and services to capture, manage and optimise space, whether you are a retailer, architect, contractor, public sector or commercial client.
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