26 August 2009
The States Apprenticeship Scheme is being reintroduced after the Treasury Minister, Senator Philip Ozouf, approved funding of £972,750 as part of the fiscal stimulus programme.
The scheme will provide apprenticeships for up to 21 young people who will be able to join training placements in a variety of States departments. As well as paid work experience, the apprentices will receive training through day release courses at
Highlands
and elsewhere. The experience and qualifications they receive will enable the apprentices to enter trades where there are known skills shortages in the
Island
.
Recruitment and selection for apprentices, who need to meet certain entry criteria, will start in early September.
'The aim of the fiscal stimulus programme is to help support the
Jersey
economy, employment and businesses in the
Island
,’ said Senator Ozouf. ‘The States Apprenticeship Scheme will train people in a number of business disciplines and help tackle the skills gaps. The aim is for individuals to develop skills that will help them adapt to changes as the economy improves.’
Opportunities on offer include apprenticeships in business administration, horticulture, and welding and fabrication. There will also be placements in the motor vehicle and electrical fields in States departments.
Economic Development Assistant Minister Senator Paul Routier said: ‘The States
Apprenticeship Scheme will help young people feel supported through a period of uncertainty and will give them the opportunity to earn while training in a trade or craft.
‘At the end of their placement, these young people will be trained and prepared for the upturn in the economy and with the skills they’ve learnt they’ll be attractive to potential employers or they may even consider self-employment.’
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