Young people find out about career options at apprenticeship fair

WHETHER it was a career in the army or hairdressing, there was something for everyone at an apprenticeship fair.
Ryan Shipston Business Manager with CEMAST along with Annelies James Business Manager with Fareham College

Picture by:  Malcolm Wells (160627-3353)Ryan Shipston Business Manager with CEMAST along with Annelies James Business Manager with Fareham College

Picture by:  Malcolm Wells (160627-3353)
Ryan Shipston Business Manager with CEMAST along with Annelies James Business Manager with Fareham College Picture by: Malcolm Wells (160627-3353)

In total, 23 training providers from across the area set up stalls at Somers Town Community Hub in Portsmouth.

And more than 50 young people learned how an apprenticeship can be a great career path.

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Among the providers were Portsmouth College, Fareham College, Highbury College, as well as the RAF, the army and Haha Apprenticeship Hair Academy in North End.

Zac Winter, 16, from Hilsea, said he found the afternoon helpful.

He said: ‘I dropped out of college because I was not enjoying the course. I wanted to try something different.

‘I enjoy the working environment but still getting an education.

‘I’m interested in electrics and stuff to do with sports.’

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Harry Labruyere, 17, from North End, said: ‘I’m planning to join the RAF when I leave college.

‘I have wanted to be a pilot since I was young.

‘I’ve come to terms with the fact that the best way into it is the RAF.’

Danika Hooker, 24, is just coming to the end of her apprenticeship with Portsmouth City Council, working in the housing department.

Now a housing officer, Danika said it was the best thing she had ever done.

‘I absolutely love it,’ she said.

‘University was not for me.’

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Simon Feetam, who is in the RAF, said: ‘It’s a great opportunity for the kids of Portsmouth to come and see exciting avenues open to them.

‘It’s an eye-opener for them.’

He said an RAF apprenticeship offered ‘world class training’.

He added: ‘There’s an opportunity to travel and it pays well.’

Sam Cobb, apprenticeship manager for Portsmouth City Council, helped to organise the event.

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She said: ‘The benefits of an apprenticeship are you are earning and learning.’

Any school leaver or person over 16 interested in an apprenticeship can call Sam on 07977 551089. Alternatively visit gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship.