Leicester MP, Jon Ashworth, visited our Leicester skills centre during National Apprenticeship Week to find out how we help local young people gain the qualifications and experience they need to find work in their chosen career.
On Friday 10 February we played host to many local youngsters keen to find out more about the vocational training that we provide and to take advantage of the hands on taster sessions available to them on the day.
These sessions included visual merchandising for shop fronts, where assembling and dressing mannequins took place, which gave the learners a real experience of working in the retail sector. In addition to this, they could have a go at sector-based activities in childcare (changing nappies and different play schemes), hospitality (cake decorating) and health and social care (manual handling).
Many local youngsters were in attendance, from local schools that we work closely with, or referred by their Connexions adviser. Mr Ashworth MP enjoyed meeting his young constituents and hearing what they thought about their plans for their futures, he was even happy to take part in some of the taster sessions. Speaking about the visit, he stated:
“At a time when youth unemployment stands at its highest it is vitally important that young people have the opportunity to undertake training, reach their potential and be part of the world of work.”
Jennifer McMahon, Regional Skills Development Manager for esg. said: “It is really important to let young people know that there are a wide range of options available to them, that they can still have a successful career without going to university, which for some may not be an affordable option. Our business works closely with employers to ensure that our training delivery meets their needs. We deliver individualised work-based learning to employees so that they can become more responsive to the demands of both their company and the local labour market and also gain vocational skills and accredited training qualifications.”