Apprenticeships The New Trend
25th February 2013
APPRENTICESHIPS: THE NEW TREND
25th February 2012
North West Kent College has been offering Apprenticeships for more than twenty years and is aware of the recent increase in young people starting Apprenticeship training. Recent changes in Government legislation to raise the compulsory education participation age to 18, has meant that Apprenticeships are becoming increasingly popular for 16 year olds.
Under this government, the number of people starting an Apprenticeship has increased at a record rate; with a 63.5% growth of Apprenticeship starts for the academic year 2010/11 compared to the previous year, according to The Department of Education.
Apprenticeships offer young people the chance to leave school at 16 and go straight into work. This enables them to earn while they learn and establish a worthwhile career path. Research shows that Apprentices will earn around £100,000 more throughout their lifetime, than other employees. Plus, with more than 1,400 Apprenticeship job roles available across the country, it becomes clear why this is becoming a popular choice for young people.
JM Hairdressing in Northfleet works closely with North West Kent College to take on Apprentice’s. Owner, Jackie Mathis says: “Apprentices are a vital part of the JM team; we could not operate without them. They provide day to day assistance and support to the stylists, while getting a sound foundation for their early careers.”
The College has a reputation for providing quality training that is supported by local organisations, such as JM Hairdressing. This helps to provide Apprenticeship opportunities for North West Kent College students, within the local community.
Kate McMahon, 19, from Gravesend, is an Apprentice at JM Hairdressing and student at the College. Kate became an Apprentice to move away from the restrictions of education: “I wanted to learn on the job and didn’t want to be full-time at college. I enjoy being hands-on and having my own day for clients; it is hard work, but it’s very enjoyable and rewarding. I feel I’ve progressed quicker with the support of my Salon and North West Kent College.”
Apprenticeships are available at the College in; Business, Accounting, IT, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, Construction, Sustainable Construction, Electrical and Engineering, Motor Mechanics, Marine and Maritime, Hospitality, Adult and Childcare, Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy, Retail, Management, Customer Service, Sales, Telesales and more.
To find out more about Apprenticeships, The College has its next Open Day Tuesday 5th March at both it’s Dartford and Gravesend campuses from 3.30-8.30pm, where staff will be available to provide information on Apprenticeships. Alternatively you can contact the Apprenticeships Team at North West Kent College on 0800 074 1447, or visit the Apprenticeships web page.
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