Scores take up our challenge to find apprentices
13/01/2011
Teenager Vikki Thornewell is four months into her Apprenticeship and says there’s no looking back.
The 16-year-old is studying NVQ Level Two Business and Administration at Leicester College but has returned to her old school, Guthlaxton College, to gain real life experience while getting paid at the same time.
Vikki, who has been working alongside other administrators at Guthlaxton College since September, ensuring it runs smoothly for its staff and students on a daily basis, said: “I knew I didn’t want to go to university so I looked at courses at the college and business and administration really caught my eye.
“I also really liked the idea of learning on the job so when the apprenticeship came up I thought it was a great opportunity. It means you really get to know what the job’s all about and if you enjoy it you can pursue it further.
“It’s already made me think I want to do my level three NVQ in the subject.
“I’ve been very well supported by the college and my work colleagues throughout the process so I’d definitely recommend it to others. I’m here full time and I love it.”
Jane Walker, HR assistant at Guthlaxton College, said Vikki was “making her mark”.
She said: “It’s great to see someone like Vikki benefiting from this partnership but equally we also get a lot out of it. She’s keen and enthusiastic and it’s clear she wants to learn. She’s an extra pair of hands in the office and is fulfilling a vital function for us. That’s why I’d recommend other employers to consider taking on an apprentice.”
Tracey Kinsley, Assistant Principal for Employer Engagement at Leicester College said: “The growing popularity and importance of Apprenticeships to businesses and the local economy means that it is fantastic a very important time for Leicester College to be supporting the Apprenticeship Challenge. This is also a great opportunity for every employer to be thinking seriously about how Apprenticeships can provide new skills and knowledge for their business and the staff they employ, now and into the future.
“There is a wide range of Apprenticeships available in every industry sector, and the flexibility of being able to get qualifications alongside on-the-job training means this is becoming an increasingly desirable route for many people. Colleges like Leicester College work with each employer to understand their business needs and tailor the Apprenticeship around them. This ensures that the business as well as their staff member, benefits.