Despite some fantastic opportunities available, Newbury College is currently experiencing a shortage of suitable candidates applying for apprenticeship positions this September, especially in the catering, motor vehicle, engineering and hair industry areas.
The Government's apprenticeship programme gives people the opportunity to experience practical on-the-job training whilst simultaneously studying for a nationally recognised qualification. Apprenticeships were designed to help bridge the skills gap in certain industry areas such as catering, hospitality, engineering and construction.
After a UK-wide marketing campaign to promote the take up of apprenticeships, the number of people starting apprenticeships in 2014/2015 rose to 499,900 (up 14% on the previous year). Despite this increase, the College is still concerned that not enough school leavers are considering apprenticeships as a route to a career.
We have a wide range of local employers waiting to offer candidates fantastic opportunities to earn a salary and gain industry-specific training at the same time, explains Anne Murdoch, Principal and Chief Executive, at Newbury College. When school leavers come to us they often haven't even considered apprenticeships as an option. What they don't realise is that many apprenticeships offer training up to Level 5 and above, which is the equivalent to a degree.
Whilst it is often possible to start an apprenticeship at any time of the year, a few of the opportunities we have available at the College will come to an end this month due to the requirement to attend a day release programme, continues Murdoch. So we urge potential candidates who haven't yet decided whether to stay in education or enter the workplace, to consider apprenticeships as an option.
Newbury College is offering candidates the chance to find out more about the benefits of apprenticeships and obtain help with applying for one of 22 current vacancies, by attending an Apprenticeship Information Session on Wednesday 21 September between 16:30-17:30pm. Click here to register for the event.
For an informal discussion, contact the College's Advice, Information and Guidance or Apprenticeship team on 01635 845000.