Schools event marks National Apprenticeship Week

National Apprenticeship Week highlights the value and benefits of apprenticeships and this year focuses on helping people develop the skills they need for a rewarding career.

In Wandsworth the council’s Life Long Learning team work with young people to find them apprenticeships, and with local employers to encourage them to offer apprenticeships.

This week’s event was attended by around 50 young people in Year 11 and Sixth Form from Southfields Academy and Graveney School. They were able to talk to current apprentices and council staff to find out about the different types of job available and the range of services offered by the council, plus get tips on how to apply.

Southfields student Alex, who wants to be a social worker, went along to find out about the different routes to starting a career other than university: “You start an apprenticeship with specifically a career you want to go into to, so you’ve got to make sure you have the passion for the job.”

Karen Frusciante, Assistant Headteacher at Southfields Academy, said: “It was really valuable for our students to have an opportunity to speak to the young apprentices at the council. I’m sure some will be inspired to search the council website for opportunities they can apply for.”

Cabinet Member for Children Kate Stock opened the event. She said: “We’re noticing more interest from young people in getting work experience and finding out about opportunities to work for the council. Many of them like the thought of helping others in their community and working with certain groups of residents like children and older people.

“Apprenticeships are a great option for people at the start of their career, and there are loads of opportunities in Wandsworth at the council and elsewhere. Get in touch with our Life Long Learning Team to see how they can help you.”

The council advertises all apprenticeship vacancies as they arise at https://jobs.richmondandwandsworth.gov.uk/. You can also visit  wandsworthlifelonglearning.org.uk or call 020 8871 8055 for more information.