The Apprentice
Monday October 19, 2009
Sir Alan Sugar beware - there is a new apprentice in town!
Because H&F Council has recently taken charge of 19 young aspirants who will all be picking up vital skills and work experience over the next year.
Nearly 20 per cent of the working age population are currently on benefits. With increasing numbers of young people not in education, employment or training (NEETS), this scheme represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for those lucky enough to be involved.
The Hammersmith & Fulham Apprentice Scheme has seen the protégés, all local 'NEETS' aged between 17 and 24, taking up business administration roles in key council service areas. This is the first time that the council has tried to help 'NEETS' in this way.
As well as NEETS, this scheme is aimed particularly at care leavers and lone parents. Each apprentice sat a test before winning their place and will spend six months in two roles.
Since it started in September, apprentices have been learning the ropes in nearly every council department, including highways, parks, H&F Advice, recycling, community sports and the youth offending service.
Cllr Stephen Greenhalgh, Leader of the Council, said: "I am delighted to welcome the apprentices to Hammersmith & Fulham and am sure they will gain valuable insight into how a top-rated local authority is run.
"It is not easy for young people to find employment in the current economic climate and as your 'Borough of Opportunity' we are more than happy to do everything we can to help them along the way. This apprentice scheme should help all of the young people involved to make the best of their lives."
As well as gaining valuable, paid-for work experience, the time spent at the council will help the youngsters to achieve an NVQ Level 2 in Business Administration.
Case studies
22 year-old Stephen Olutayo, of White City, said: "I was unemployed and was not at college either and went to the council offices on King Street to put myself on the housing list. The council asked if I wanted help in finding a job and I got a meeting and brought in my CV. I then sat the test, got an interview and was offered the apprenticeship. I was really pleased because I have a child on the way and this means that I will be bringing home some money. It should also prove to be a good career step. I am working in customer services in the housing and employment team. It is going well and everyone is very friendly."
Asher Brinkley-Esprit, 17, is spending the first six months of her apprenticeship working in the public protection and safety team. Hammersmith resident, Asher, said: "I was told about this scheme by Connexions and am really enjoying my time here. I have been sending off faxes and have sent licensing letters to some really big companies. I work with a nice team and it feels good to get some money in. I am also enjoying spending time with the other apprentices - the whole group is like one big team."
Gilroy Northover, of Field Road, Hammersmith, hopes the scheme will give him the experience needed to set up his own design business. Gilroy, 17, said: "I was studying art and design at Hammersmith College but really wanted to get involved in business as I want to be self-employed when I am older. I am working in the procurement team and it is going well. The team has made me feel very welcome. I am sure that I am picking up some good skills."
"I was doing a diploma at the Fashion Retail Academy on Tottenham Court Road but really wanted to do something at the council", said 18 year-old Rebecca Evans of Hammersmith. I am working in the adult social care team concentrating on issues around housing, homelessness and mentally ill people and it is going really well. There is a really good sense of job satisfaction and I get on with my team."
