Youngsters invited to try their hand at new careers

Youngsters looking to lay the foundations for a new career are invited to try their hand at a range of skilled trades as part of an apprenticeship afternoon.

From bricklaying to carpentry and hairdressing to child care, school leavers can have a go for themselves at the event run by Skills Group.

The event will be staged in a large marquee at the Piazza, by the Big Screen, on Armada Way from noon to 5pm on Wednesday, April 9.

Local employers and a team of apprenticeship experts will be on hand to give advice and information to anyone interested in finding out more about an apprenticeship.

Businesses interested in finding out more about taking on an apprentice can also get advice about the funding available and what benefits it can bring.

Throughout the day there will be the opportunity to take a swing at the ‘masters course’ with a golf simulator, as well as a circuit competition with prizes to be won.

Live demonstrations and competitions will be held with prizes including Lee Evans and John Newman tickets up for grabs.

Plymouth-based Skills Group, rated as ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted, is one of the largest training providers in the country.

It currently has more than 100 vacancies in a wide range of sectors from construction to sport and leisure and engineering to hair.

Mark Boulting, managing director of Plymouth-based Skills Group, said: “We had a phenomenal success at last year’s Apprenticeship Afternoon. Many of the youngsters who signed up with Skills Group on the day have now almost completed their apprenticeships and are on their way to build a successful career.

"Following on from that success, we're pleased to announce that this year's event will be even more diverse and interactive. Apart from being able to try a wide range of trades, potential apprentices will also have an opportunity to meet many top local employers who are currently recruiting.”