The (Real) Apprentice returns to County Hall

Following the huge success of "The Real Apprentice" showcase Event in Worcester last year, the council is all set to host another careers showcase for Spring 2012 in the council chamber, at County Hall.

The event, jointly organised by Worcestershire County Council, National Apprenticeship Service and Herefordshire, Shropshire & Worcestershire Training Providers Association and the Black Country Training Group, is intended to further boost interest in apprenticeships and work-based learning opportunities in the county and will take place on Friday, February 10, 2012.

The Real Apprentice showcase event will run from 1.30 to 7.30pm.  Students from years 10,11 12 and 13 are being invited to attend along with their parents or guardians, a total of 24,000 current learners, who will find all of the information they need about Worcestershire's Apprentice programmes at their fingertips.

The showcase has been planned to coincide with Apprenticeship Week and this year the opening times have been extended to enable those schools wishing to bus in their students to attend.

Potential apprentices will have the chance to hear from, and talk to, major employers, training providers and successful apprentices who have gone from strength to strength since learning their trades.

Aamir Kayani, Enterprise, Employment & Skills Manager said: "Apprenticeships offer excellent opportunities for young people to continue training and developing skills while earning a wage and beginning a successful and rewarding career. 

"Not only will the young people benefit from a thriving apprenticeship programme but also the county's economic future depends on highly skilled employees, particularly in emerging technology sectors.  These skills are often better acquired through tailored on the job training rather than through non-specific college training." 

Councillor Simon Geraghty, Worcestershire County Council's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economy & Infrastructuresaid: "We were delighted with last year's success and are very excited to be once again part of this event.  

"Ensuring the county is Open for Business is one of the top priorities for County Council. Working to support businesses and potential apprentices is one way we can ensure that our economy has the skilled workforce it will need in the future."

Schoolchildren from all around the county have been invited and anyone aged between 16 and 18 years can also get in touch and book a free place by calling freephone 0800 321222.

Individuals can contact NAS for more information about Apprenticeships by emailing wmnas@apprenticeships.gov.uk or by visiting http://www.apprentices.org.uk/