Helena Welcomes Apprentices On Board

Young people are being supported by Helena Partnerships in getting into the world of work.

As part of a partnership project between re:new, St Helens Chamber and Connexions, 40 school leavers from across St Helens have been given the chance to earn as they learn through new apprenticeship opportunities.

The young people, aged 16-18, will receive a weekly wage while they work towards qualifications in Business Administration, Customer Service, Warehousing or Health and Social Care at local companies.

As part of the scheme, Helena Partnerships has welcomed three apprentices to the company - Connor Hampson, Kirstie Rimmer and Samantha Sullivan.

Christine Barton, Training Services Manager at St Helens Chamber, added: "The new programme has been specifically designed to provide the apprentices with a wide range of highly transferable work skills that will not only help them while they complete their apprenticeship, but in any future employment."

For further information about the re:new apprenticeship programme visit www.sthelenschamber.com

Connors Story

Connor, 16, is working towards an NVQ in customer service withHelena's Estate Caretakers. He said: "My apprenticeship is giving me the opportunity to expand on my customer service and organisational
skills, so far I've helped prepare for events, put up gazebos and carry out building maintenance work. I've even had a go at gardening andarranged the delivery of fresh fruit and vegetables for our tenants.

"Every day is different, my apprenticeship is definitely keeping me busy and I hope it will bring me one step closer to getting into full-time employment."