SCHOOL leavers on the lookout for employment can learn on the job and gain relevant qualifications by joining an apprenticeship scheme.
Students receiving their exam results over the next couple of weeks are being encouraged to consider the option of apprenticeships.
“These schemes should not be seen as a last resort,” said Cllr Rupert Simmons, East Sussex County Council’s lead member for economy. “Apprenticeships are a great way to get real, on-the-job experience and formal qualifications at the same time working for many of our growing East Sussex businesses.
“I would encourage young people to consider an apprenticeship as a real option, whatever their exam results.”
East Sussex County Council, working with partners, is nearing the end of You’re Hired East Sussex – a five month campaign that has seen the creation of 500 apprenticeships across the county, which will give young people even more opportunity to get into work.
Apprenticeships have been created in a range of industries, include a mixture of on-the-job and formal training, and can take between one and four years to complete depending on the level of qualification and employment sector.
Cllr Simmons added: “Apprenticeships offer a great opportunity for companies to create a highly skilled and motivated workforce, and for young people to get the experience and training they need to contribute fully to the business.”
To find out more about becoming an apprentice, visit www.eastsussex.gov.uk/apprenticeships
Young people aged 16 to 19, who need support, can contact the East Sussex Youth Employability Service (YES) on 01323 410803 or 01424 722045.
You’re Hired East Sussex is being led by East Sussex County Council in partnership with the National Apprenticeship Service, Apprenticeships in Sussex, the Federation of Small Businesses, The Alliance of Chambers in East Sussex (ACES), Lewes District Council, Eastbourne Borough Council, Wealden District Council, Hastings Borough Council, Rother District Council, Eastbourne Jobs Hub, the Youth Employability Service (YES), Plumpton College, Sussex Downs College, Sussex Coast College, Central Sussex College, Rewards Training, Youthforce, HIT Training, JTL Training, Ixion Holdings, Abacus Training, 3aaa Training, and Steve Willis Training Centres.
Businesses interested in finding out more about hiring an apprentice can call the National Apprenticeship Service on 0800 015 0600. You can also visit apprenticeships.gov.uk