Supporting Workforce Development Through Glass & Glazing Modern Apprenticeships
Overview
Scotia, a leading employer in the Glass and Glazing industry, has long recognised the importance of investing in staff development to maintain high standards across its operations. To support employee progression, build confidence, and strengthen technical capability, the company partners with RT Resources to offer Modern Apprenticeships in Glass and Glazing, Construction and Business Administration to its workforce.
Why Scotia Chose Modern Apprenticeships
Scotia’s leadership team identified a key organisational aim: enabling staff to progress professionally while supporting long‑term retention. Modern Apprenticeships aligned perfectly with this goal.
The employer highlighted that offering formal qualifications:
- Strengthens staff progression and retention
- Recognises and formalises the skills employees gain on the job
- Helps address skills needs within the Glass and Glazing sector
- Gives colleagues a pathway for personal development
The programme was therefore chosen as both a workforce development strategy and a positive cultural investment.
Staff Development and Skills Gains
The Modern Apprenticeship framework resulted in clear and measurable benefits for participating employees. According to Scotia, apprentices demonstrated:
- Increased confidence
- Better understanding of industry standards
- Stronger problem solving and initiative
- Skills progression and development
Employees who often lacked confidence in their abilities were able to validate their skills through the qualification process, which translated into improved performance on site and stronger engagement in day‑to‑day duties.
Impact on Business Performance
While still an ongoing journey, Scotia confirmed that the skills developed through the apprenticeship have already contributed positively to workflow and team operations. Improvements observed include:
- More assured decision‑making among staff
- Greater consistency in workmanship
- Enhanced awareness of health, safety, and industry compliance
- A more skilled and reliable workforce
Career Progression and Employee Responsibility
Participation in the Modern Apprenticeship has helped several staff members take on new responsibilities. Although not all employees have progressed significantly yet, Scotia reports that:
- Many have begun taking on tasks with greater independence
- The programme has opened up clear future development pathways, both for employees and the business
This demonstrates the long‑term potential of continuing to invest in vocational qualification routes.
Support from RT Resources
Scotia expressed very high satisfaction with their experience of RT Resources. They praised:
- The professionalism and responsiveness of assessors
- The ongoing guidance provided to both managers and apprentices
- The structured but supportive approach to assessment
- The strong communication and collaborative working relationship
Martin Woods, Newbuild Operations Director at Scotia, described the support as “invaluable” in helping employees achieve success.
“With the professional support and guidance received from all at RT Resources, being able to offer and encourage the opportunity for personal improvement through these Modern Apprenticeship qualifications is invaluable to individuals, to the business, and to the wider Fenestration industry. I take personal pride in every colleague who achieves their chosen qualification.”
Martin Woods, Newbuild Operations Director, Scotia
Future Engagement
Scotia confirmed they absolutely intend to take on additional Modern Apprentices in the future. The organisation views the programme as an essential part of its workforce‑development strategy and plans to continue expanding access to qualifications across the business.
Apprentice Feedback
“I found the SVQ to be a positive experience. The way in which the course was delivered through the workbook and practical on-site visits from Brian suited me and I found it easy to follow.
Now having completed the SVQ I feel more confident and recognised within my trade having the respective qualification. My knowledge of building/industry standards has greatly improved.
I appreciate Scotia putting me forward to gain a recognised qualification within my field.”
Mark Boyle, Newbuild Window and Door Installer
“I really enjoyed completing my SVQ Level 6 qualification in Windows and Doors because it allowed me to build on my practical experience while gaining a nationally recognised certification. The course challenged me to refine my technical skills, improve my knowledge of industry standards, and develop a deeper understanding of installation, safety, and quality control. I particularly appreciated how the qualification combined hands-on work with structured learning, giving me the confidence to take on more responsibility in my role. It was rewarding to see my everyday skills formally recognised, and the process has helped me grow both professionally and personally within the industry.”
Edward Jaap, Newbuild Window and Door Installer
“I found completing my apprenticeship a great experience and a learning curve but being qualified has boosted my confidence in speaking to clients and site staff. It has shown me that not only can I work well in a team, but I can also lead a team as well due to guidance and training from my apprenticeship and other experience engineers. I am grateful for my experience and qualification.”
Thomas Douglas, Newbuild Window and Door Engineer
You can find out more about the qualifications we deliver in Glass & Glazing here, or contact us for more information.
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