“The process of recruiting an apprentice couldn’t have been easier,” said Artjom Aleksandridis, managing director of construction firm Adam Renovations, which has employed two apprentices for the first time.
“It’s a win-win arrangement, we benefit from their fresh perspective and practical insight; while the apprentices benefit from working alongside industry professionals, and get the knowledge, skills and experience they need to kick-start their career.”
Ealing Apprenticeship Network, run by Ealing Council, offers free recruitment support to business owners and managers interested in offering apprenticeships placements to residents.
Apprenticeships offer a real job with hands-on experience, a salary and the opportunity to train while you work – as the two business administration apprentices at Adams Renovations testified.
Tia Alexander found her placement via the council’s Ealing Apprenticeship Network, and said: “I wasn’t sure where to begin, so I contacted the council to get advice. Ealing Apprenticeship Network helped me to write my CV and prepared me for interviews. After two weeks in the programme I was offered a role here.”
Fellow apprentice Yunus Cengiz said: “An apprenticeship is a good opportunity to learn while getting work experience. Every day on the job is different and offers new opportunities to develop.”
Apprentices earn while they learn and do not pay a penny for their training, which means that, unlike university students, they have no debts to repay when they finish their course. Apprenticeship roles are available at Ealing Council and across the borough. Anyone living in the borough, over 16 years of age and not in full-time education can apply.
Find out more
To find out more about becoming an apprentice, email apprenticeships@ealing.gov.uk or call 020 8825 6234.
Or, to see how taking on an apprentice can benefit your organisation, and to find out how you can receive help to set up an apprenticeship, visit ealingworkwest.com/apprenticeships
Apprenticeships bring real benefits
Councillor Jasbir Anand, the council’s cabinet member for business and community services, said: “We have created more than 500 apprenticeship opportunities in the past two years, as part of our commitment to ensuring our residents are able to progress to well-paid jobs.
“We hope that this demand continues to grow as apprenticeships can bring real benefits to our borough, not just for job-seekers but for businesses too.”
Want to read more?
There are lots more examples of successful placements of apprentices with local businesses. Browse our jobs and skills section if you would like to read more. Including the story of Sam, a construction apprentice.
