Posted: 09/09/13
Member of Parliament impressed with apprenticeships at college
Parliament’s apprenticeship ambassador has praised West Nottinghamshire College’s apprenticeship provision during a tour of the college today (9 September).
Andrew Jones MP and apprenticeship ambassador, visited the college’s Derby Road campus, where he met with principal and chief executive Asha Khemka OBE and senior executives, local employers and apprentices.
A round table discussion with employers focussed on the diverse range of apprenticeships that the college offers to employers in the local area.
The party, which included chief executive of Mansfield District Council, Ruth Marlow, also toured the college’s new salons, spa and fine dining restaurant where Mr Jones met hospitality, catering, hairdressing and beauty apprentices.
Mr Jones said: “I’ve been really impressed with what I’ve seen here today in terms of the facilities and the apprentices themselves. There’s a huge buzz around the college – it’s great to see students enjoying their learning and making great starts on new careers. They’re clearly some of the best ambassadors for apprenticeships.
“The quality of the facilities like the kitchens, salons and spa are all ideal for apprentices about to go into the world of work. It’s a fantastic environment which will provide a seamless transition into new careers and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed seeing the facilities and meeting the students.”
Asha Khemka OBE said: “It was a pleasure to show Mr Jones how well we engage with employers and young people to develop one of the most successful apprenticeship schemes in the country.
“We’ve been able to shown him how diverse our range of apprenticeships are which span a number of industries and they’re making a real impact in transforming lives and preparing a future workforce.
"Through engagement with employers and young people, we have developed one of the most successful apprenticeship schemes in the country."
Andrew Jones’ role sees him engaging with employers and advocating apprenticeships and he is responsible for encouraging MPs to get involved in promoting apprenticeships in their constituencies and providing them with the information and advice they need to do so.
He regularly relays his findings to the Department for Education and Department for Business, Innovation and Skills to help improve policy making.
