London councils win apprenticeship funding

By Neil Puffett Friday, 27 January 2012

More than 700 young people are to gain employment opportunities after a group of councils secured apprenticeship funding of £1.25m from the European Social Fund.

At least 716 young people set to be given opportunities. Image: Vicky Matthers

Wandsworth Council in London successfully led a partnership bid also involving Merton, Sutton, Croydon, Kingston and Richmond to help 16- to 19-year-olds access apprenticeships and other training.

Over the next two years at least 716 young people are expected to be given opportunities through various programmes across the boroughs.

Kathy Tracey, Wandsworth’s lead member for education and children’s services, said: "The council is committed to creating apprenticeship opportunities for young people wherever possible.

"We have had tremendous success in offering high-quality apprenticeships for some of our young people and we have discovered a high level of talent and ability out there.

"Our officers are working hard to encourage other employers in the area to follow our lead and to reap the benefits of what the apprenticeship programmes have to offer.

"There are a number of high-profile employers that are actively supporting the programme but there is still some way to go in really opening up entry to the labour market for many of our young people."

Existing apprenticeships offered by Wandsworth give young people the chance to take on various business administration and teaching assistant roles.

Selina Gilbert, 19, started a business and administration apprenticeship when she was 17 – and last year won Learner of the Year at the borough’s Adult and Community Learning Awards.

"Since starting my apprenticeship, I have gained a great deal of confidence and a wide range of experience and new skills," she said.

"I have found my course very enjoyable and have gained my NVQ qualifications and met many people on the way.

"An apprenticeship is a great stepping stone. You are not only earning, you are learning along the way."