Building employment skills

In these difficult economic times it's more important than ever that residents get the skills employers want so they can compete for jobs and build careers.

6 February marks the start of the National Apprenticeship Week which aims to raise the profile of apprenticeships among employers, individuals, teachers, parents and the media.

Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to develop your skills whilst getting valuable employment experience. Open to all ages, they give you the opportunity to earn a wage, work alongside experienced staff and gain job specific skills. Building the right skills makes you more attractive to employers - and this can help build your resilience and achieve your potential.

The Skills Place Newham is the official retail academy for Westfield Stratford City. It offers a wide array of apprenticeships - from retail, customer service and hospitality to business administration, IT, Management and logistics. To find out more visit the Skills Place Newham website, or call 0845 330 6439

We're running a careers and apprenticeship fair for Newham schools and residents on 23 February in the Old Town Hall Stratford. That's your chance to find out what an apprenticeship can do for you. If you would like more information or want to come along, just email hassan.shami@newham.gov.uk to guarantee your place. You can also find out more about apprenticeships on the Newham Workplace website.

Mayor of Newham, Sir Robin Wales said:

"We're with Apprenticeships because getting local people into jobs and helping them build careers is our top priority. Apprentices get on the job experience and a real chance to develop their skills. Plus, apprenticeships enable employers to design training which meets the needs of their business and snap up new talent crossing their path".

Apprenticeships provide a way in to a sustainable career, acting as a firm foundation for the future.