The re-introduction of Douglas Borough Council’s apprenticeship programme has seen six new apprentices begin their training.
Apprentice gardeners Thomas Corlett, Cameron Mallinson and Conylt Welsh, together with apprentice electrician Oliver Dunne, apprentice mechanic Sam Stannard-Duke and apprentice plumber Joshua Sharpe, were welcomed to the council by council leader David Christian , who was joined by Councillor Claire Wells, chief officers and representatives from human resources.
Apprenticeship training is being delivered in conjunction with the Department of Economic Development and University College Isle of Man (UCM), of which Councillor Christian is a member of the board of governors.
Councillor Christian said: ‘In these uncertain economic times apprenticeship opportunities in the private sector are fewer, especially in the building trade. The council, along with the Isle of Man Government, recognises the importance to the Manx economy of a skilled workforce, and it was against this background that we have re-introduced the apprenticeship programme.
‘The council provides a wide range of services, so is able to offer a particularly diverse programme of on-the-job training through which young people can learn transferable skills, gain qualifications and be better prepared for the increasingly competitive jobs market.
‘Apprenticeships also provide a practical introduction to the wider world of work and offer rewards that exceed the monetary, as they give young people a sense of purpose and worth.
‘In revitalising its apprenticeship scheme the council is not only helping to equip young people with skills to set them on productive career pathways but also making its contribution towards supporting a resilient, diverse economy. On behalf of Douglas Borough Council I wish Cameron, Conylt, Joshua, Oliver, Thomas and Sam every success.’
UCM programme manager, construction Corelli Bentham said: ‘UCM is delighted to be working in partnership with Douglas Borough Council and the Department of Economic Development to offer an apprenticeship in horticulture. This is an exciting opportunity for the students to begin their career in gardening and grounds work whilst combining a full-time job and developing practical skills with training.’
Photo - from fifth left, apprentices Cameron Mallinson, Thomas Corlett, Conylt Welsh and Joshua Sharpe with council leader David Christian, second right, Councillor Claire Wells, extreme right, chief officers and human resources representatives. (Oliver Dunne and Sam Stannard-Duke unavailable for photo). Picture Andrew Barton.
