YOUNG people from across East Sussex received career advice and support after attending an apprenticeship matching event at the Eastbourne Arndale Centre on 30 April. 

Organised by the East Sussex Youth Employability Service (YES), the event was held as part of the You’re Hired East Sussex Apprenticeship campaign.

The event gave people the opportunity to talk one-to-one with the YES team and training providers,and to receive help and advice with applying for apprenticeships and submitting applications.

Interest in apprenticeships proved high, with the event attracting a steady stream people throughout the day.

“These events are great as they help you to find out what you want to do” said Lawrie Goodman, a Year 11 student who is currently considering his options after finishing school.

Another Year 11 student, Miguel Ottmann, was also positive about his future options “Apprenticeships seem like a great idea and something people should consider – I know I definitely will,” he said.

Dan Vernon who works for the YES East Sussex team providing information, advice and guidance for 16-18 year olds, was clear about the importance of these events “Apprenticeships are high on the political agenda at the moment so it’s important that we provide opportunities for people to access the right information in order to help them make the best decision for their future”. 

If you have apprenticeship vacancies or want to find out more about how YES support young people, contact 01323 410803 or 01424 722045.                                                                       

Pictured: Matt Dadswell (left) and Joseph Merocka.

Roman Scott recently celebrated completing his Electrical Level 3 Apprenticeship at Steve Willis Training in Burgess Hill. After an initial rocky start, Roman proved he had what it took and was praised for his commitment upon graduating, with an award from his trainer Pete.

Roman first became interested in becoming an electrician whilst working as a cable installer in the summer holidays, during his two years at college.  “I enjoyed the line of work and thought it would make sense to take it up” he says, “when I checked out the training centres, I noticed that Steve Willis Training had good reviews, and I also had a couple of friends who went there and said it was really good, plus it was local”

Now qualified, Roman works as an electrician doing his own work & also subbing out for other firms. “This gives me flexibility, which means I can choose my hours and also focus on other aspirations too” he says.

It was one of these other aspirations that nearly cost Roman his place on the course. “At the beginning, he was often late and sometimes didn’t even turn up. This was due to him playing in a band which involved late nights” said his trainer Pete. “I persisted with him however, and then suddenly something inside him clicked. He got his head down and started realising the importance of completing an Electrical Apprenticeship”

At the Graduation Ceremony in Burgess Hill, Roman was presented with an award for ‘overcoming issues either work related or personal to complete the course’. “It was great to see Roman’s achievements recognised and came as a complete shock to him!” said Pete.

I was pretty gob smacked really” adds Roman, “when they called my name out it took me by complete surprise! It was a good feeling to be acknowledged.”

Burgess Hill based, Steve Willis Training Centres are specialists in Gas, Electrical and Plumbing Apprenticeships and have over 14 years’ experience.  They provide training to ensure excellent pass rates, covering both theory and practice using fully equipped training facilities. Steve Willis Training Centres don’t have strict entry criteria as they consider enthusiasm to be just as important; they also offer more training and assessment days than standard FE colleges. Their trainers have vast experience in the industry and will guide and support you throughout your apprenticeship and provide help with finding an employer. Call 01444 870860 for more info or email apprenticeships@stevewillis.com  

Pictured: Steve Willis (left) Roman Scott (centre) & Gerry Papworth

You're Hired - East Sussex Apprenticeships

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