Over 100 apprentices enrolled through South Devon College campaign

South Devon College is celebrating this year’s National Apprenticeship Week (Feb 9-15) with the news that its ambitious campaign 100 Apprenticeships in 100 days has been a success. 

The college says it enrolled just over 100 apprentices since the start of this campaign in late November, many of these with existing local employer partners.  

“We are delighted that our campaign has been successful in raising awareness and getting people talking about apprenticeships,” said Laurence Frewin, CEO and Principal of South Devon College. “Whilst there is a huge amount to celebrate, there are still large numbers of young people seeking an apprenticeship placement, in south Devon and across the UK.  

“Hiring an apprentice is a great benefit and adds value to local businesses as well as keeping skilled people in the local area. 

“We know that it is a difficult time for local employers and our team at South Devon College are on hand to help at every step of the way. From paperwork through to advice on how to fund apprenticeships in your business, we want to help make taking on an apprentice as straightforward as possible.” 

As part of National Apprenticeship Week, Laurence Frewin spent some time with three local businesses who have apprentices through South Devon College to see the range of skills young people learn. 

He visited Reach Outdoors, where he washed wetsuits, Bay Photonics where he spent time in the hi-tech laboratory and then did some carpentry on site with MW Benney Construction. 

“What I learnt was that all these employers see the benefits of hiring apprentices and the valuable skills these young people are learning and they are also helping people stay and have good careers in the region,” said Laurence Frewin. 

Ashley Hone, Director of Operations at Reach Outdoors says apprenticeships are a great way of developing outdoor instructors from the local area. They currently have seven apprentices and have been working with South Devon College for 10 years. 

“The apprenticeship gives the apprentices time and structure to learn on the job while gaining nationally recognised qualifications,” Ashley explained. 

“It allows them to grow with the business, really understand how we operate, get to know our customers, and provide valuable continuity and support to our seasonal staff team.” 

 Richard Poustie, Operations Manager at Bay Photonics says the benefit of taking on an apprentice is that it gives the business and the young person the opportunity to develop their skills to a level that when they’ve completed their apprenticeship, they’ll be able to add great value to the business. 

“I would definitely recommend taking on an apprentice,” said Richard. “The apprenticeship gives the young person the opportunity to work and be educated. The one day a week at South Devon College means they learn skills that relate to their working environment.” 

Neil Phillips, Site Manager at MW Benney Construction says there are many benefits for hiring an apprentice. 

“It’s not only investing in the future of the local economy but it’s also investing in the future of our business,” he explained. 

He says there are some costs associated with taking on an apprentice but that it’s not always about the investment in your company, it's about the responsibility of keeping the business in local areas and training people up. 

“I have employees now who started as apprentices 15 years ago and they are still working for the business and keeping the trades in the local area. 

“The apprenticeship gives the young people the opportunity to work in different areas and then go to college for the theory and come back on site to put all of that to good use.” 

Alice Nuttall who is doing an Outdoor Activity Instructor apprenticeship at Reach Outdoors says she wanted to explore a career that combines outdoor activities with working with people. 

“The apprenticeship allows me to gain experience while working towards qualifications. Everyone at South Devon College is very supportive and the learning links well with my job.” 

Alice says the apprenticeship allows her to gain hands-on experience while learning, apply skills straight away, and build confidence in the industry.  

“I would definitely recommend studying for an apprenticeship, especially for people who prefer practical learning. Starting at 24 myself, I’ve found it’s a great way to gain experience while also working towards qualifications, no matter your age.” 

There's plenty going on at the College throughout National Apprenticeship Week, including webinars and information events. Check the College's website event listings to get involved or to find out more about apprenticeships.