CIRENCESTER College will be celebrating National Apprenticeship Week next week to recognise the positive impact that apprenticeships have had on local businesses, individuals and the economy. 

Starting on Monday, March 6, Cirencester College will be hosting an information evening for anyone interested in finding out about apprenticeships.

The college's apprenticeship team will also be available to chat between 4.30pm and 7pm.

The team currently delivers apprenticeships in eight key business sectors and across three different levels.

Apprenticeship Manager, Sarah Helbrow said: "With clear Government support for the growth of apprenticeships, the college is seeing a rising interest in apprenticeship opportunities.

"Some young people decide to enter into an apprenticeship at 16 rather than continue with full-time education.

"Many will stay in education until 18 to gain further qualifications and then choose an apprenticeship route as a natural progression from college or sixth form.

"Whatever age or stage you start an apprenticeship, there is no doubt that it is a valuable route in to employment, and our statistics back this up - 90 per cent of our completing apprentices last year remained with the same employer after they completed their apprenticeship.

"For us, this really does confirm the value of apprenticeships to both the employer and the apprentice.

"Apprenticeships can give companies the opportunity to grow their skills base which in turn can lead to growth in the business.

"We pride ourselves in developing genuine partnerships with local employers who have a shared vision about the value and purpose of apprenticeship training."

To find out more, go to: www.cirencester.ac.uk.