Exam results are out and students are weighing up their options – with Hambleton District Council encouraging them to consider an apprenticeship.
The authority’s apprentice scheme provides grant aid to small Hambleton businesses in a bid to create new opportunities for 16 to 24-year-olds living in the district.
Launched eight years ago, it has already helped provide 190 apprentices with a variety of roles – including accounting, heavy vehicle service and maintenance, site surveying, digital marketing, dental nursing, sales and lettings and social media.
A success story is trainee electrician Georgia who started her apprenticeship two years ago after completing her A levels and knowing t university was not for her.
The 20-year-old from Thirsk, approached A Turner Electrical, of Sowerby, to ask about a career as an electrician and the possibility of work experience.
Having enjoyed the work experience, she enrolled herself on a course at Middlesbrough College, but needed an apprenticeship.
“As a small company with only two employees at that time, we were unsure about taking on an apprentice, but having been impressed with Georgia’s work experience and her grit and her determination in finding her own course, we were glad to support her and become her employer,” said company owner Andrew Turner.
“It took a lot of courage on Georgia’s part to jump into what’s traditionally been a male dominated career as an electrician, but she has been top of both her years at college and won the ‘Sparks’ North East & Yorkshire apprentice of the year – the only female in the area final in Newcastle. She was due to be in the national final in April, but this was put on hold due to Covid19.
“The whole process of taking on an apprentice has been a hugely positive experience for us as a company and Georgia has become a vital part of our team learning to work as part of a group, in a pair and solo.
“She has had to develop technical and personal skills and has done so in both instances extremely well.
“The help and financial support from Hambleton was invaluable too. I would urge other employers to consider taking on an apprentice.
Councillor Peter Wilkinson, deputy leader of Hambleton District Council and portfolio holder for economic development and finance, added: “Further studies through A levels and university is not for everyone and it is important that young people do something that is right for them.
“Apprenticeships offer a real job with hands on experience, a salary and a chance to train whilst you work. We are encouraging local businesses to consider this route by offering those that meet our criteria financial support to do just that.”
The wage subsidy grant of £2,000 will support small businesses that have been trading for at least three months, with priority given to those that employ less than 20 employees. The apprenticeship role must be for at least one year with the apprentice working for at least 30 hours per week.
For more information on the scheme – and for help and advice – check out hambleton.gov.uk or contact Roz Caligari on Roz.caligari@hambleton.gov.uk or 01609 767058.
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