The second annual Apprenticeship Week took place from Monday 23
February to Friday 27 February 2009. Apprenticeship Week celebrates
and recognises the essential role that Apprenticeships are playing
in today's workplace, ensuring that the workforce has the skills it
needs in order to remain competitive, even in difficult economic
circumstances.
The third sector can benefit from Apprenticeships in all sorts
of ways. Those organisations that have already employed
Apprenticeships report fresh ideas and new thinking being brought
into the organisation from the apprentices as well as opportunities
to expand and develop their provision through these employees. One
organisation said of their apprentice, "He reflects a demographic
of the population that we engage with so he can help us to target
our services and develop resources that are attractive to younger
people". Talking of another apprentice, the organisation said, "He
is a really positive role models for other potential young
volunteers"
Others report development for other staff as coaches and mentors
for the apprentices. The benefits for the apprentice include
working in an interesting and diverse workplace from other
employers and often working for and in their own community.
Further information and resources
Apprenticeships and the Third Sector - information
sheet
Apprenticeships - making a difference in the third sector (case
studies)
Learning and Skills
Council - third sector website
To find out how Apprenticeships can make things happen for your
organisation call 08000 150 600 or visit:
www.apprenticeships.org.uk