Earning an apprenticeship with a leading house-builder has put the gloss on an incredible first few months for a painting and decorating student at Northampton College.
Melody Hillyard, aged 26, is now working on-site four days a week with Taylor Wimpey before heading back into college at Booth Lane to brush up on the skills she is learning on the job.
The Level 2 painting and decorating student said she was over the moon to land the apprenticeship and get the chance to sample life in the world of work.
She said: It's been fabulous. Coming to college has been a great opportunity, especially for someone like me, a mature student coming back to education. I didn't really know how to go about things but the course leader and tutors have been fantastic, helping me along step by step.
To get the apprenticeship has been brilliant, I'm over the moon. Taylor Wimpey have helped explain what it all means and what happens next and I'm loving the chance to learn new skills on site.
Getting into the world of work and having the chance to get on-site while I'm still getting the qualifications I need is amazing.
Dan Johnson, trade development manager at Taylor Wimpey, added: It has been great for us as a business to be able to offer apprenticeship opportunities and support to talented people such as Melody. At Taylor Wimpey we are passionate about supporting all of our apprentices and ensuring they have a successful career with us.
I am very pleased to be working in partnership with Northampton College who will be supporting us as we look to grow our apprenticeship numbers in 2019.
Businesses with skill gaps and a need for new team members can tap into a pipeline of more than 300 talented Northampton College students ready to start working today.
The college has been inundated over the past six months with enquiries from students wanting apprenticeships. Its business team, committed to supporting both businesses and young people, is now seeking placements across all areas of business.
If you are an employer and potentially have roles available in business, customer service, HR support, childcare, teaching assistant, manufacturing or business improvement techniques roles we have students who can start today, said Donna Rowland, recruitment and support manager for apprenticeships.
Not only will you be investing in local young people but you will also benefit from new creative ideas, fresh talent and fill your skills gaps. The college will help you find your ideal candidate. We will pre-screen students, help you advertise your vacancy and prepare students for interview.
Employers are urged to contact the college as part of National Apprenticeship Week, which takes place between March 4 and 8.
This annual celebration of apprenticeships will bring the whole apprenticeship community together to celebrate the impact of apprenticeships on individuals, employers and the economy.
For more information, call the college's Business Centre on 01604 734323 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
