Southwark’s National Apprenticeships Week a huge success

Published 21 February 2011

Southwark Council has held a week of events to highlight the role and work of apprentices as part of National Apprenticeship Week, which took place from 7 to 11 February 2011.

The week's events were linked to the values of the programme, respect, support, community, co-operation, and recognition, and reflect the themes of National Apprenticeship Week which are 'A great way to start your career', 'Good for business' and 'The big thank you.'

The Southwark Council events were organised by apprentices themselves and included a 1940s tea party in a residential care setting, a fund raising event including cake sale, tombola and book sale, £830 going to Macmillan Cancer Support, and an award ceremony for those who have fully qualified in their chosen field.

Catherine McDonald, cabinet member for children services at Southwark Council, said:

"Congratulations to all our award-winning apprentices. Apprenticeships help people get their foot on the jobs ladder and earn while they learn. They are also great for employers - I encourage all Southwark's employers to take on apprentices."

Keisha Merrifield, Current apprentice, 20 said:

"I've learnt many things whilst I was given the opportunity to shadow a councillor that for me was the highlight of the week. I found it very insightful to see how things work from a different perspective. I also found the 1940s tea party went down very well, the whole concept was genius what a lovely thing to do for our elderly community"

The four events for each day of the week were: