A housing association refused to let a global pandemic get in the way of providing job opportunities for young people in North Yorkshire.
Broadacres had planned to recruit six apprentices in May this year so they could begin the college courses which form part of work-based apprenticeships.
But the plans were then thrown up into the air when the Covid-19 lockdown was announced in March.
However, that made Broadacres even more determined to take on the apprentices so after assessing whether it could safely accommodate the young people as a result of all the changes brought about by Covid-19, the association began the recruitment process in August this year.
Due to Broadacres’ office being closed and no prospect of carrying out face-to-face interviews or assessment centres as it had done in previous years, the entire process was moved online.
This resulted in an 250 applications and after an initial webinar, assessment and interview, the list was narrowed down to six.
All six apprentices offered roles accepted and they have now started work at Broadacres.
The apprentices are: Max Cook, plasterer; Bronte Hogarth, painter; Samuel Baldwin, commis chef; Alice Brown, digital/social media marketer; Billy Hutchinson, heating engineer; and Laura Bradley, electrician.
Alice, 23, from Northallerton, said: “I graduated from university with a 1st degree in English literature and when I saw the job advertised, it interested me because I have always been interested in marketing and communications.
“In my role I look after Broadacres’ social media accounts which involves sharing good news and engaging with customers and stakeholders.
“I love the job and working for an organisation like Broadacres which genuinely cares.”
Laura, 38, from Crakehall, near Bedale, said: “I used to be a teacher but wanted to do something completely different and practical.
“I only wish I had done it sooner because I love meeting customers and the team I work with is fantastic.”
Gail Teasdale, Broadacres’ Chief Executive, said: “Broadacres has a long track record of appointing apprentices and even though Covid-19 meant we had to approach things in a different way, we were determined to still make it happen as this year.
“Due to the economic uncertainty caused by the pandemic, apprenticeships that lead to sustainable careers are more important than ever for our communities.
“So, we were delighted with the response we received from people interested in working for Broadacres. It made the selection process very difficult, but we now have six outstanding young people learning their trade with Broadacres over the next 18 months and hopefully beyond.”
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