Apprenticeships: council helps almost two people a week in to work

Islington Council is helping local people into apprenticeships – at the rate of almost two a week, new statistics reveal. 

 

Figures show nearly 400 Islington residents, most of them aged between 16 and 24, were supported into apprenticeship positions between 2012 and 2016.

 

As well as offering dozens of positions a year within the council itself, the north London local authority works closely with Islington-based businesses to create a range of apprenticeships in a variety of sectors – from carpentry and housing repairs to ‘magic circle’ law firms to renowned theatres and arts venues.

 

Maria, from Highbury, started an apprenticeship with the council’s Housing Repairs team in September. She said: “I’ve always loved learning. The prospect of getting another qualification makes me so happy.” Starting an apprenticeship, she said, “was perfect”. 

 

Islington Council’s executive member for economic development, Cllr Asima Shaikh, said: “This is fantastic news and testament to the efforts that Islington, together as a borough, puts in to giving local people the opportunities and support they need to succeed and find the job they want and deserve.”

 

More organisations are expected to offer similar positions this week, after the council hosted an ‘Aspire Apprenticeship Open Evening’ on Wednesday, to mark National Apprenticeship Week 2017. 

 

The council also met with employers from the borough to encourage them to offer more opportunities for Islington residents and understand the impact of the government’s ‘Apprenticeship Levy’, which comes into effect next month.    

 

For more information on becoming an apprentice or offering a an apprenticeship position, please email youthemploymentteam@islington.gov.uk or call 0207 527 3559.