Lewisham celebrates apprenticeship scheme

The London borough of Lewisham was out with intent to party on Wednesday night (May 15th) with the community celebrating the success of more than 50 apprentices as part of its Apprenticeship Framework scheme.

Hosted by the mayor of Lewisham Sir Steve Bullock at the Broadway Theatre in Catford, the event was designed to recognise the hard work and effort put into the Framework, which ensures consistent high quality across all apprenticeships offered in the district.

More than 50 people have now completed an apprenticeship as part of the Framework, which consists of achieving an NVQ in a relevant vocational field, a technical certificate that tests theory taught at college and lessons in maths, English and information technology.

Participants in the scheme were required to complete all five separate sections, as well as finishing their contracted job placement, in order to receive their Framework-approved apprenticeship.

The event saw everyone receive a certificate, although Mr Bullock also gave out a number of prestigious awards to those who had gone above and beyond the call of duty.

In particular, Apprentice of the Year was presented to (first name?) Robinson, caretaking apprentice at Lewisham Council for special efforts put towards achieving his goal, while Susan Asquith, community involvement manager at Lewisham Homes saw her excellent management style rewarded with the Best Manager accolade.

The Apprenticeship Framework was introduced by the council in an effort to promote apprenticeships as a good way of entering the job market and to combat unemployment throughout the borough.

As such, it was felt a ceremony on par with a university graduation should be held in order to reward the efforts of participants in the Framework scheme.

Apprentices undergo a number of rigorous training sessions in order to give them the required academic skills in subjects such as English and maths, while simultaneously taking part in a work experience placement designed to encourage communication and develop essential work-related skills.

Posted by Ben Carter

Published 17th May, 2013

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