UK manufacturer of flooring adhesives and floor preparation products, F. Ball and Co. Ltd., is investing in the future of the flooring industry through its ongoing apprentice and internship programme.

The company now has three apprentices and one Keele University intern, employed at its manufacturing headquarters in Cheddleton. F. Ball also recently awarded its first STEM scholarship, in partnership with the Arkwright Scholarship Trust. F. Ball places a high value on the importance of training, bringing young people into the business and enabling them to continue in education, and gain relevant qualifications, whilst learning on the job.

The three apprentices currently working for F. Ball are Charlie Hollins, 17, Callum Gunn, 21, and Bradley Ball, also 21. Charlie Hollins is a Marketing Apprentice, working towards an NVQ Level 3 in Marketing. Callum Gunn is working towards an NVQ Level 3 in Engineering Maintenance and ultimately a degree in Engineering Design. Bradley Ball is training to become a fully qualified Electrician.

Sarah Bolsover, 24, is participating in a six month internship in F. Ball's Development department. She has a BSc in Chemistry and a Masters in Formulation Science from the University of Keele.  A-level student Harry Booton, 17, is the first recipient of the F. Ball and Co. Ltd. Arkwright Engineering scholarship, which offers mentoring, support and real-world industry experience. The scholarship is designed to encourage local students talented in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) to further develop their skills and embark on careers in STEM subjects.

Founded in 1886, F. Ball is a leading manufacturer of flooring adhesives and floor preparation products for the contract flooring industry, a position that the company maintains through extensive testing and research and development to continuously enhance its product range.

David Woolrich, Training Advisor at F. Ball, said: "F. Ball's leading position in the UK flooring industry is as much down to the talents of our people, which we continue to enhance through continual professional development, as it is the quality of our products. We believe strongly in investing in the next generation of young people, who will grow to take on vital roles in the future of F. Ball."

www.f-ball.co.uk