You're hired! Apprentices given the chance to shine

EIGHT new apprentices - including two from Yeovil - became members of the Somerset Learning Disabilities Service this week as part of a drive to boost numbers.

The service has been holding roadshows across the county looking for new recruits, promoting the apprenticeship route as a great way to earn while you learn and start a career in the care sector.

For the first time, apprentices received certificates to welcome them into the service. They are the latest to embark on an Apprenticeship Diploma at Level 2 in Health and Social Care developed by Somerset County Council and Somerset Skills & Learning (SS&L).

Cllr Christine Lawrence, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, who presented the certificates at a ceremony at the Museum of Somerset, said: “Supporting people with learning disabilities is a hugely rewarding career and I’m delighted to welcome these new apprentices.

“These certificates are in recognition of the enthusiasm and commitment they have already shown. I’m sure they will learn a great deal whilst undertaking their training, and make a massive difference to people’s lives who use our service.”

The apprentices have already passed a robust initial assessment and interviews. To complete the apprenticeship they will be training one day a fortnight with Somerset Skills and Learning and be assessed in the workplace.

Dave Watson, Senior Manager at SS&L, said: “There are no age restrictions to becoming an apprentice and many people don’t realise that you can start working in the care sector from the age of 16. I’m delighted to welcome the first of what I hope will be many apprentices dedicated to a career in Learning Disabilities.”

The Learning Disabilities Service is looking to recruit four more apprentices this year and apprenticeships are also available in other areas of Somerset County Council.

Anyone who is interested in an apprenticeship in the Learning Disability Service can contact Somerset Skills and Learning on 01278-426828.

Two apprentices Sam Whatmore and Mica Newberry are working in Yeovil, with the other apprentices around the county being Sarah Gerry, Lee Woolacott, Jorden GIlbert, Lance Stoodley, Larissa Pitman and Charlotte Clarke.

PHOTO: Pictured, from left to right, are Sarah Gerry working in Taunton, Lee Woolacott working in Ruishton, Jorden Gilbert working In Bridgwater, Lance Stoodley working in Street, Sam Whatmore working in Yeovil, and Councillor Christine Lawrence.

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