dhf, in partnership with Train’d Up, has developed a funded apprenticeship programme specifically for the Door, Gate & Shutter sector.
The programme gives dhf members the opportunity to recruit, train and retain skilled engineers, incorporating the recognised NOCN Level 2 NVQ Diploma PLUS an Ofqual regulated dhf Level 2 Safety Award.
Who is the apprenticeship for?
The programme is suitable for both new and existing employees, including:
Whether you are looking to bring new talent into your business or develop an existing member of your team, the apprenticeship offers a practical route to recognised competence.
What will apprentices develop?
Apprentices will develop a combination of engineering knowledge, practical skills and occupational competence, with learning focused on areas including:
Engineering
Mechanical engineering principles Electrical awareness Engineering maintenance Engineering health and safety
Installation, Repair or Maintenance Installation practices Planned and reactive maintenance Servicing Fault identification and repair Safe isolation procedures
Industry & Compliance
Health, safety and welfare Industry standards Productive working practices Maintenance reporting Specialist Door, Gate & Shutter systems
The programme combines five key elements:
For levy-paying employers, available levy funds can be used to pay for apprenticeship training and End Point Assessment. For eligible non-levy employers, the Government typically funds 95% of apprenticeship training costs, with employers responsible for 5% co-investment.
DHF members also benefit from additional support, including funding for the NOCN Level 2 NVQ Diploma through Train’d Up, specialist DHF sector training and ESA occupational competence assessment.
The apprenticeship is delivered over 12–15 months, combining online learning with practical workplace experience.
Apprentices receive live, tutor-led online learning from specialist engineering tutors throughout the programme. Knowledge areas include engineering health and safety, mathematics, science, maintenance principles, IT systems and engineering working practices.
Practical skills are developed and assessed within the workplace, supported by a dedicated Train’d Up Engineering Assessor.
Apprentices receive:
Formal progress reviews take place every 12 weeks between the apprentice, employer and assessor, helping to keep development on track.
For DHF members, the programme provides an opportunity to build a sustainable pipeline of skilled engineers while supporting long-term workforce development.
Benefits include:
Develop the next generation of engineers Future-proof your workforce Improve employee retention Maintain industry-recognised competence standards Reduce recruitment costs Access government-funded apprenticeship training Gain nationally recognised qualifications Benefit from FREE apprentice recruitment support from Train’d Up
