Youngsters turning to apprenticeships in search of new career (From Dorset Echo)

Youngsters turning to apprenticeships in search of new career

11:00am Tuesday 12th March 2013 in News By Rachel Stretton

MORE and more youngsters are turning to apprenticeships to forge their career, according to new figures.

The National Apprenticeship Service said online applications to apprenticeships of all types increased by 41 per cent between November and January compared to the same period last year.

And it’s not just young people who are seeing the benefits.

Apprenticeship vacancies are also up by 26 per cent online, according to the figures.

Michelle Cheeseman and Mel Ford of Munchkins Play Cafe in Dorchester opened their business last year, and have just taken on their first apprentice, 17-year-old Leonie Gunn.

Michelle said: “As a new business we weren’t sure if perhaps we should take on someone with experience, but having Leonie has worked out so well.

“She is bright, enthusiastic and keen to learn and it gives us chance to go through all our training procedures and the health and safety side of things.”

Leonie is undertaking a course in hospitality, food and beverage service with training provider Paragon.

Michelle added: “My husband began his career as an apprentice and it does really teach you those key skills of the workplace.

“It can be daunting for a young person to go straight into that, but it’s a great way to grow and learn.

“From what I’ve seen so far, I really admire Leonie and I think she’s got a great future ahead of her.”

The National Apprenticeship Service has launched an app, so youngsters can search for apprenticeship vacancies on their mobile phones, matching their chosen industry with their location.

It is free to download and available from the iTunes and Android app stores.

David Way, chief executive of the organisation, said: “As these figures suggest, more consumers and employers are recognising the benefits of apprenticeships and the value of the high quality training available.

“It is great to see such significant growth in both apprenticeship applications and vacancies submitted and advertised online in just one year.”

He added: “Apprenticeships are a great way for young people and adult learners to earn while they learn in a real job, gaining a real qualification and setting them on the road to success in their chosen career.

“For employers, hiring apprentices is a way of attracting new talent and developing a motivated, skilled and diverse workforce.”

To apply for, or advertise an apprenticeship vacancy, visit the website at apprenticeships.org.uk or call 08000 150 600.

Get involved

AN APPRENTICESHIP has offered one former student ‘countless opportunities’.

Claire Hutton, pictured, wanted to further her qualifications while gaining work experience to put on her CV and decided to study a level three NVQ in business administration at Kingston Maurward.

Claire, 28, said: “The apprenticeship has given me experience, qualifications and up-to-date skills.

“Having been given countless opportunities to work across many departments, I have gained invaluable knowledge and experience.”

Claire has now finished her course and is working as a practice secretary at Eagle House Surgery in Blandford.

Her former tutor Janet Brown said: “Claire managed and organised us all and has been one of the best administrators I have ever had the pleasure to teach and work with.

“Her new employers stated that she had the most up-to-date qualifications of all the candidates and we know she will be a great asset to them.”