Sian is an early years practitioner at Buttons Day Nursery in Hanwell. She started an apprenticeship two years ago that was advertised by the council as part of its 100 in 100 campaign and it has now led to her attending university.
Running for 100 days between September and December, the popular annual 100 in 100 campaign aims to secure 100 pledges for new apprenticeship placements from local businesses – and it would be the seventh year in a row it had achieved that.
Employers can offer apprenticeships to new people through the network, or use apprenticeships to grow talent from among their current employees.
Sian’s story
Sian did her apprenticeship at a different nursery as she worked towards becoming fully qualified. She has now completed her apprenticeship and her current work at Buttons supports her unversity course. She said: “Without my apprenticeship I probably would have been working and I wouldn’t have been able to get into uni, where I am now doing an early year’s foundation degree.
“When I was doing my apprenticeship I had a mentor and she had a lot of knowledge. If I ever needed help I could go to her and she would help me a lot.
“If you’re considering an apprenticeship –definitely do it. Because you will gain more knowledge, you will have better qualifications and you can go on further in your career. And if you’re a business recruit an apprentice and then you will have more qualified staff.”
Residents interested in apprenticeship places available from local businesses can find out more on the council website where you can see current vacancies or register to get vacancy updates sent to you.
Councillor Jasbir Anand, cabinet member for business and community services said: “Sian’s experience shows the real benefits that someone can gain from joining an apprenticeship programme. You will gain knowledge, time management and have the chance to set a good base for a successful career.
“If you are a business and you haven’t already I would recommend getting in contact with our Ealing Apprenticeship Network team to find out more about setting up apprenticeships. You can not only help develop someone’s confidence and career, but will have the chance to build up someone’s skill-set to easily slot in to your company.”
Make a pledge: How it works
Employers who would like more information or to offer an apprenticeship should visit the apprenticeships pages of the council website and fill out the form online, or call 020 8825 6234.
Once you have made a pledge a member of the Ealing Apprenticeship Network team will be in touch with you to discuss if an apprenticeship is a good option for your business, followed by a visit to the premises where the apprentice will be working (or office base for apprentices who would be working remotely). You will be given assistance in setting up the apprenticeship role and in recruiting the apprentice.
HIRING? HERE IS MORE INFORMATION
- Call 020 8825 6234
- Email apprenticeships@ealing.gov.uk
- Visit www.ealing.gov.uk/apprenticeships
