A fantastic programme in Kirklees that prepares 16- to 18-year-old council tenants and their family members for an apprenticeship has successfully concluded its fourth year.
Kirklees Council’s pre-apprenticeship programme, which is run in partnership with Kirklees College and C+K Careers, provides a minimum of six-months unpaid study and support, primarily for council tenants but also other residents of the wider West Yorkshire borough.
The programme provides learners with valuable life skills, confidence, and work experience, in a bid to improve their employability and help them move closer to their ideal careers.
Participants receive up to six weeks of real work experience through the council’s property services or contractors, along with vocational learning, pastoral support, and enrichment activities. They also gain essential qualifications in English and Maths and receive employability skills training.
The results have so far been exceptional, with 12 participants earning their IOSH certificate, and four have applied for additional accredited courses.
Five participants have successfully passed the first stage of their CSCS Green Card, while three have secured apprenticeships—two with the council and one externally.
Six participants have found either part-time or full-time employment that has lasted for at least 13 weeks, and 14 have completed a CV.
Kirklees Council described each of these outcomes as a “significant step forward” in each person’s journey towards fulfilling employment.
Tyler Beaumont, a graduate of the programme who will be starting as an apprentice technical assistant at Kirklees Council, had this to say: “The pre-apprenticeship programme has helped me in so many ways. It’s boosted my confidence and improved the way I interact with people.
“Thanks to the programme, I’ve now managed to secure an apprenticeship with the council starting in September! I’ve made new friends and gained loads of knowledge about the trade and customer service.”
Liam Griffin, another graduate who will be starting as an apprentice joiner at Kirklees Council, was equally enthusiastic: “The pre-apprenticeship programme has helped me in many ways. From meeting new people and making me a more confident and open person, to improving my grades, gaining practical skills, and allowing me to try all the trades I’m interested in. I would highly recommend the pre-apprenticeship programme to anyone.”
The pre-apprenticeship programme will open again in September, with the council receiving more than 60 expressions of interest over the past year.
Head to the council’s website to find out more about the support and programmes available in Kirklees to help with securing a job.
