
National Apprenticeship Week
Published: 7 February 2022
For those with aspirations to maybe become a Michelin Star chef, help make the streets of Redbridge a safer place, or forge a new and exciting career, National Apprenticeship Week is the perfect time to get started.
National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) takes place between Monday, 7 February & Sunday, 13 February. NAW is the 15th annual week-long celebration of apprenticeships. The week brings together businesses and apprentices across the country to shine a light on the positive impact of apprenticeships on individuals, businesses and the broader economy.
Work Redbridge, the council's employment support portal that offers access to employment & volunteering opportunities, business support and free training, is currently advertising a range of exciting apprenticeships, including an Apprentice Police Officer and an Apprentice Production Chef with The Bread Factory. They supply Michelin restaurants, hotels and even the Queen, no less.
Since 2015, Work Redbridge have been supporting residents across the borough to gain employment, training, volunteering and self-employment. The Team works intensively with individuals to develop an employment action plan, enhance their skills, update their CV and identify job opportunities to help them move forward in their career, whatever their aspirations might be. By December 2021, Work Redbridge had helped 1,800 support people into active employment.
Derrone Edgar is an apprentice who Work Redbridge placed with Kenson Highways Ltd, a Civil engineering company, in 2020. Speaking about his apprenticeship, Derrone said:
"When I first started my apprenticeship with Kensons, I wasn't aware of how far this opportunity would take me. Now I am working full time with them and enjoying the experience I have gained with them.
"I would say to anyone who wants to apply for an apprenticeship is do it. Trust me, I did and look at me now. I'm enjoying my job, and I have skills which can take me further in life."
Cllr Jas Athwal, Leader of Redbridge Council, said:
"Apprenticeships give local people the opportunity to gain invaluable workplace experience and work towards a qualification, all whilst getting paid.
"Our incredible Work Redbridge team recently helped our 1,800th resident into employment and training, and whether you are looking for a route into becoming a police officer or becoming a chef, I would encourage anyone looking for apprenticeship placements to contact our team who are on-hand to help you discover your next career opportunity."
Listed below are local events that people can attend during National Apprenticeship Week to learn about the exciting opportunities available.
Metropolitan Police Service - Tuesday, 8 February, 10.00am - The Met Police will be hosting an information session on Met Police Constable Apprenticeships.
Please email workREDBRIDGE@redbridge.gov.uk stating "MET Police Apprenticeships" in the subject line to book your place on the session.
New City College - Tuesday, 8 February 11.30am-12.30pm - New City College is working with Work Redbridge to
host a virtual information session for local people interested in finding out more about how apprenticeships can boost their careers.
Please email workREDBRIDGE@redbridge.gov.uk stating "New City College Information Session for Residents" in the subject line to book your place.
The University of East London - Thursday, 10 February 2.30pm-3.30pm - The University of East London is working with Work Redbridge to host a virtual Pre-Entry Information Advice and Guidance Service. They will deliver impartial educational guidance to local communities looking to return to education at all levels.
Please email workREDBRIDGE@redbridge.gov.uk stating "UEL Degree Apprenticeship Info Session" in the subject line to book your place.
There are currently many Kickstart vacancies within Redbridge schools, including roles in IT, teaching assistants, admin and more.
Or please look at our localtrainingproviders pages for a variety of skills and training in Digital Media, Construction, Accounting and Technology sectors.
For further information on apprenticeships, please visit Work Redbridge