PUPILS from Kirk Balk, Foulstone, Willowgarth, St Michael's RC and Royston schools are taking part in a new apprenticeship programme designed to make it easier for them to get into their ideal careers.
The Barnsley Young Apprentice Programme gives 14-16 year old secondary students the chance to find out more about a profession they are interested in by offering work experience placements in relevant organisations across the district.
Students ca
n choose to follow a vocational programme in Business Administration, Construction, Health and Social Care or Performing Arts, studying at Barnsley College or at school, as well as studying for their GCSEs. Youngsters can try their hand at plumbing, building, surveying, architectural, nursing, accountancy, personnel, banking, acting and childcare, amongst other professions.
Sharon Peck, Lead Liaison Manager at Business & Education South Yorkshire said: "90 students are taking part in the Barnsley Young Apprenticeship Programme, which we hope will improve their job prospects and help meet the skills shortage in the region. This programme gives Year 10 and Year 11 students the opportunity to spend a greater time within local businesses and other organisations whilst studying vocational training, which enhances their overall experience.
"The programme is specifically for youngsters who are serious about a particular career path and want to find out more about the skills involved in that chosen field. The great thing about these Apprentice schemes is that the students can find out if the role is right for them. On the other hand, if the candidate shows potential, the employer may consider employing them at the end of the placement, so it's a win-win situation!"
During the two year programme, the Apprentices attend college for two half days per week where they study a BTEC First Diploma, which is equivalent to four GCSEs at grade A*-C. They also have to complete 50 days' real-life work experience, which are spread out over the two years normally in one to three week placements.
Students also participate in a variety of enrichment activities including confidence building and team building events, employer visits, University days, enterprise challenges and training events.
The Barnsley Apprentices have been placed in both large and small businesses throughout Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham and Sheffield.
