Evesham Business
Chance to earn as you learn
5:50pm Tuesday 21st February 2012
WORCESTER-based national housing and care provider Sanctuary Group has seen an increase in young people choosing to become an apprentice rather than going to university.
The organisation, which has offices in Castle Street, had 85 apprentices in 2010, rising to 187 in 2011 – an increase of 120 per cent.
The upward trend seen at Sanctuary’s award-winning apprenticeship scheme comes amid an 8.7 per cent drop in university applicants last year, highlighting the growing popularity of the earn-as-you-learn route.
David Bennett, Sanctuary group chief executive, said: “Our apprenticeship scheme has gone from strength to strength and seems to be an increasingly popular route among young people today.
“We really value the energy and enthusiasm of our apprentices and the difference they make to our business. As a major employer we believe it is important to do our bit to train tomorrow’s workforce and ensure young people have the skills needed to build successful careers.”
Sanctuary apprentices Tom Smith, Jeya Greenfield and Sarah Wall were studying for A-levels or equivalent qualifications when they decided to apply for an apprenticeship with Sanctuary rather than choosing to go to university.
Based at Sanctuary’s Worcester office, they are currently studying hard for level three diplomas in business administration.