New Signify and Illuminated River Project apprenticeship launched

The Signify and Illuminated River Project apprenticeship has been launched by MP Anne Milton, Minister of State for Apprenticeships and Skills.

The apprenticeship is part of Signify’s work with the Illuminated River project to illuminate up to 15 bridges on the River Thames, in what will be the longest public art commission in the world, led by the Illuminated River Foundation.

The Signify and Illuminated River Project apprenticeship will be divided into three core elements from 2019 to 2022. The successful apprentice will divide his or her time between: studying towards a qualification, such as engineering through Signify’s educational partner, the Farnborough College of Technology; supporting work exclusively dedicated to the Illuminated River project; and working across other lighting projects within Signify’s UK and Ireland business.

The apprenticeship is fully paid, with the starting salaries sitting at £15,000 (for those below 20 years old), and £17,000 (for those over 20 years old). The chosen apprentice will also receive the same benefits as permanent employees, including pension contributions and annual bonuses.

Anne Milton MP, Minister of State for Apprenticeships and Skills commented, “I’m thrilled to help launch the Signify and Illuminated River Project apprenticeship. Apprenticeships offer people of all ages and backgrounds a high-quality route to skilled employment, including the option to gain a degree. Signify is doing fantastic work with its apprentices, offering them great support and in return, the apprentices are bringing new inspiration and fresh talent to the business."

Sarah Gaventa, director, Illuminated River Foundation, added: “The Illuminated River project will use connected LED lighting across up to 15 bridges in what will be the world’s longest public art commission. This is a great opportunity for an apprentice to experience it first hand and become part of the team to create inspirational artwork seen by 200 million people a year, which will have a lasting legacy for London.”

Joao Pola, CEO, Signify UK and Ireland, said: “At Signify, formerly Philips Lighting in the UK, we have invested in training over 15 apprentices over a six-year period. This new Signify and Illuminated River Project apprenticeship builds on our existing schemes for those looking to gain strong work experience with a blue chip, global organisation alongside valuable qualifications, helping them learn skills such as graphic and practical design, customer interaction, and technical skills. Also, it gives them the opportunity to work closely on the Illuminated River project – a groundbreaking public and architectural lighting scheme that will transform the River Thames and areas around it.”

Those interested in the Signify and Illuminated River Project apprenticeshipcan apply here.