A HOST of events have been organised this week at York College to mark National Apprenticeship Week.

The theme of the week - which runs until Friday - is ‘Climb the ladder of opportunity with Apprenticeships’.

There’s a chance to get on board with good careers advice and find out about employment opportunities.

Two current college students who are on apprenticeships at the have spoken about how they are making them work.

Alex Young is a Level 2 bricklaying apprentice working in his family business.

He said: “I enjoy doing the practical work and being hands-on whilst also having the opportunity to compete in bricklaying competitions.

“Coming into college definitely helps me when I go out to work with my dad.

“In the future I’d like to go into the family business or set up a bricklaying business with my brother and be self-employed.”

Katie Cambridge, a Level 3 painting and decorating apprentice with Novus Property Solutions, said: “I’m doing an apprenticeship as I’m earning money, I wanted to do a trade and have always enjoyed decorating at home.

“I’m really enjoying it at York College and will hopefully be able to stay-on with my company in the future.”

Anyone thinking about apprenticeships can go along to the York College Apprenticeship Showcase tomorrow from 6pm – 8pm, as part of the college’s open evening.

Local employers, including York Conferences Ltd, S G Petch, Severfield, York Minster, Persimmon Homes, Pavers and MBA Engineering, Vensonn and Branded will be on hand to speak about current apprenticeship vacancies and job opportunities, offering advice and guidance on all aspects of apprenticeship training.

College staff will be there, giving hints and tips on creating a CV and making an application, as well as providing careers advice.

Any employers wanting to know more about the benefits of taking on an apprentice can also take advantage of one of the college’s business breakfasts happening during the week.

To find out more or to book a place at events later this week just contact the business development unit on 01904 770368 or email businessdevelopment@yorkcollege.ac.uk

On Thursday last week about 500 people and more than 40 employers attended an apprenticeship event at City of York Council’s West Offices headquarters.