MORE than 20 apprentices spent a few days in Snowdonia's national park as part of a team challenge.

The group of first and second year Kronospan Engineering Apprentices had the goal of exploring the countryside in an adventurous way while learning about teamwork, communication techniques and leadership characteristics.

They faced physical and mental challenges and learnt lots of new skills such as problem solving, map reading, and survival skills.

Ben Hipkiss, Kronospan human resources manager, said “Kronospan aims to inspire and support apprentices throughout their training period.

"The objective of these trips, which we do every year, is to provide motivation, increase confidence and give role models to the young apprentices. It is great getting everyone together in this way and they thoroughly enjoy the weekend.”

The Kronospan apprentices are all locally based and these talented young people have all succeeded in passing their exams to secure a place on the Kronospan apprentice scheme.

Kronospan has now trained more than 80 local youngsters since it established its award-winning scheme in 2003.

During the four years of training, the youngsters undertake an in-depth technical programme involving high quality academic qualifications plus industry-leading practical skills and experience gained at the Kronospan factory.

They graduate as qualified mechanical and electrical technicians with real experience of maintaining multi-million pound manufacturing processes.

Kronospan has also trained 100 mature apprentices, some of whom are still working towards their qualifications.

These programmes include engineering, IT, management, customer services, and business administration apprenticeships amongst others.

It has also supported numerous staff in undertaking prestigious post-graduate and professional qualifications such as MBAs, CIMA & PGC’s.

Kronospan has a work force of 620 direct employees, a quarter of whom live in in the village of Chirk.