Posted: 08/07/13
Apprenticeship opportunities for Mansfield youth
Young people in Mansfield have another opportunity to secure an apprenticeship during the summer holidays while being paid to gain employability skills.
Vision Apprentices – the recruitment arm of West Nottinghamshire College – will be repeating their pre-employment programme, the ‘Summer Job Shop’, in partnership with Mansfield District Council and local businesses.
There are 30 places up for grabs to any 16 to 18-year-olds living in the district and seeking an apprenticeship within the local area.
The programme, now in its third year, consists of workshops and activities to prepare them for employment, along with help planning their careers. Support includes motivational tips, help creating a professional CV, mock interviews and a chance to meet employers looking to recruit.
There will also be taster sessions and team-building activities designed to improve team-working, confidence and communication skills.
The two-week programme starts on 29 July and runs for two-and-a-half days a week over the fortnight. Workshops and activities take place at Mansfield Civic Centre, with taster sessions held at various employer sites. Attendees will be paid £20 per week for taking part.
Apprenticeships on offer across local businesses include information technology, business administration, customer service, construction, hair and beauty, hospitality, retail and warehousing.
Sandra Cowley, head of employer engagement at West Nottinghamshire College and managing director of Vision Apprentices, said: “Following the success of our previous summer job shop projects, we’re looking forward to offering yet more opportunities, employability skills and that all important self-confidence to Mansfield school leavers.
“This is the perfect time for young people about to think about their next steps towards training and employment, have a go, and get a sample of their future careers.
“Our links with Mansfield District Council and local businesses will ensure participants have access to a range of activities and workshops and that all important chance to meet employers who are looking for new recruits to fill current and paid for apprenticeship vacancies.”
Councillor Andrew Tristram, Portfolio Holder for Corporate Issues at Mansfield District Council, said: "The Council is committed to tackling youth unemployment within the District. The Summer Job Shop is an innovative project which gives local young people vital skills and knowledge to prepare them for work and I’m pleased we are able to offer the scheme again this year.
"This is an excellent example of organisations working together to benefit local people."
