Young people who are waving goodbye to school or college this summertime could be suffering sleepless nights, not just about grades, but about whether to continue in education or thrust themselves into the world of work.
Making a decision early on can sometimes lead to disappointment or frustration, though, as many discover they respond better to work-based training as opposed to academia.
That’s why Apprenticeship Schemes are making a big comeback and now Cheshire East Council has launched its own, and comes at a time when young people are finding it hard to gain employment. At Cheshire East Council apprentices get the opportunity to study for NVQs (National Vocational Qualifications) and benefit from two six month placements in different Council services.
Opportunities are varied with NVQs available in areas such as business administration, ICT and customer services with apprentices able to apply for full-time positions while they are on the scheme.
Councillor Frank Keegan, Cabinet member with responsibility for resources, said: “Our Apprenticeship Scheme offers a fast-track solution for many young people who are unsure about what to do with their careers. We would actively encourage anyone who is interested to contact us and talk to us about how they could be part of the council’s future.
"Some years ago I myself was part of a similar scheme with ScotRail and I finished up as a doubly qualified Accountant. In the course of my career, I have been a Special Adviser to a UN Agency (ILO) for 4 years, and I spent 20 years as a Management Consultant working in USA, Europe, UK and Kazakstan. And it all started with a scheme that gave me a foothold in business life and an opportunity to advance myself. I encourage all of our Apprentices to reach out and take their opportunities.”
Ben Whitter, who is an Organisational Development Adviser for Cheshire East Council, said: “Many apprentices go on to be extremely successful employees. Our apprentices learn from experienced members of staff, guided by their very own Workplace Supervisor at each placement, and have the overall support of an Apprenticeship Coordinator for the duration of their time on the scheme. It’s an excellent way to kick-start a career, looks great on a c.v. and gives you all the practical foundations for a successful future in any work environment.”
You can apply or find out more about Cheshire East Council’s Apprenticeship Scheme online.
