A free advice evening at Chesterfield College on Wednesday 24 October aims to dispel the myths around apprenticeships and unveil the hundreds of local opportunities out there.
Learning Unlimited’s team will be on hand at the college on Infirmary Road for the Apprentice Advice Evening between 5.30pm and 7.30pm to provide guidance about careers and apprenticeships. There will be the chance to see what apprenticeships are available, hear about success stories and find out how to apply for apprenticeships.
Potential apprentices will hear how Chesterfield, as the UK’s very first ‘Apprentice Town’, offers a variety of options to help people develop their career. The Apprentice Town initiative – a partnership led by Chesterfield Borough Council and involving Learning Unlimited among other organisations – aims to develop opportunities across the area.
Leah Shortt, operations manager at Learning Unlimited, said: “There are a lot of myths surrounding apprenticeships and the benefits and yet there are so many opportunities available at the moment. Apprenticeships are a great way of making that first step towards a dream career. Apprentices can earn a wage, while learning skills and gaining experience.”
During the evening, potential apprentices will be able to see that apprenticeships cover a wide range of subjects from business, IT and accountancy to customer service and are not restricted to traditional, manual jobs previously associated with apprenticeships. What’s more, apprenticeships lead to nationally recognised qualifications.
Added Leah: “We also want to show people that contrary to popular belief, apprenticeships aren’t just for school leavers but for people at all ages. It’s a great way for people midway through their working life to learn new skills and boost qualifications and take careers in a new direction. Our Apprenticeship Advice Evening will provide the ideal chance for people to come and have a chat with us and see what options are right on their doorstep.”
Potential apprentices, as well as parents and teachers, are invited to come along at any time during the evening for an informal chat with the team. They will be able to view apprenticeship vacancies, find out more about the individual apprenticeships and apply.
Councillor Terry Gilby, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for economic growth, added: “It’s really important that local residents benefit from the jobs and training opportunities created by the £1 billion of investment taking place within the borough. That is why we launched the Apprentice Town initiative. This advice evening is an excellent opportunity for young people, employers, parents and teachers to find out more about the wide range of apprenticeships available in Chesterfield.”