Peter gets his break in PR

A PUBLIC relations agency based in South Somerset is among one of the first companies in the country to recruit under a new apprenticeship scheme.

The new Level 4 apprenticeship in PR has been developed by the Public Relations Consultancy Association and is delivered by national education organisation Pearson in Practice. 

Peter Ireland (pictured), 19, from Yeovil, was the successful apprenticeship candidate for ADPR, which is based at West Lambrook near South Petherton, and is one of only 26 young people to gain a place on the pilot apprenticeship programme.

The course, funded by the government, involves a mixture of on-the-job training within the workplace and classroom sessions at Pearson training centres around the country.

Peter started the course with a two week induction programme, at the Pearson’s centre in Bristol and will continue with ‘day-release’ sessions, once a week for the following 18 months. At the end of the programme, he is expected to achieve a Level 4 BTEC in Public Relations – the equivalent of a foundation degree. 
 
ADPR has recently been recognised for its quality people training and development ethos through the Somerset Business Awards. Last week, the consultancy was awarded third place in the newly developed Skills for Growth Award.
 
Christine Ryder, ADPR’s Director responsible for training and development, sees the new apprenticeship scheme as a significant step forward for the industry. “I was thrilled when I was contacted a year ago asking for input into the proposed apprenticeship programme and was eager to sign up ADPR with a new apprentice.

"For many years, I hoped the Government would recognise the professionalism of the PR industry, by introducing an apprenticeship and now I am very much looking forward to seeing the programme unfold.”
 
Peter, who is looking forward to the challenges ahead, said: " PR is a fast moving and challenging industry and I’m really lucky to have the opportunity to gain a recognisable qualification, whilst building my career. I feel this is a great opportunity for me to get into a career I will enjoy.”

PHOTO: At the recent Somerset Business Awards are, from left, ADPR's  Richenda Oldham, Polly Tyekiff, Alice Driscoll, Chris Ryder, Beki Knowles and Sophie Foyle.

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