YOUNG people and businesses across East Hampshire are being urged to attend an apprenticeship fair aimed at matching them up.
The fair is being put on by East Hampshire District Council (EHDC) under its ‘Get East Hants Working’ apprenticeship scheme.
And although it is being held at Horndean Technology College (HTC), the council is keen to stress it is for school leavers and businesses from across the district.
EHDC economic development team spokesman Sarah Flamson said: “Anyone in East Hampshire interested in either starting an apprenticeship, or employing an apprentice, is more than welcome to attend.
“Apprentices are highly motivated, enthusiastic and loyal.
“They offer great value for businesses, learning and up-skilling on the job.
“They are also every bit as likely to be business leaders and managers of the future as university graduates.
“This event will also be a great opportunity for businesses looking to grow their workforce to make themselves known to potential apprentices.
“Owners will be able to show them how amazing their business is and to tell them about career possibilities in their industry.
“Equally for young people considering an apprenticeship rather than going to university, this is a wonderful chance to see what apprenticeships might be out there.
“They will be able to talk to businesses offering apprenticeships and find out all about the company, what they do, and what benefits an apprenticeship would offer in the long run.
“Under the council’s scheme, businesses and apprentices can get financial help for training, travel and some other expenses, to help make the proposition more attractive.”
Businesses in particular can benefit, with up to half of an apprentice’s salary paid for by the council.
The fair at HTC at Barton Cross is the first of its kind, and there are no immediate plans to hold similar events elsewhere in the district, says the council.
Sarah added: “But if there is an appetite for events like this we would be happy to discuss putting one on at schools like The Petersfield School, or Bohunt and Eggars schools in Liphook and Alton.
“I am also happy to talk to businesses about how we can help them engage with the workforce of the future.”
The Get East Hants Working scheme was launched by EHDC in 2013, and since then it has provided 54 young people with apprenticeships, work experience and job related training.
For more information about the fair and the Get East Hants Working scheme, contact Sarah Flamson on 01730 234168 or e-mail sarah.flamson @easthants.gov.uk
For more information about the college and its role in the fair, contact Angela Cowey at Horndean Technology College on 023 9259 4325 extension 207, or e-mail [email protected]