College Principal Paul Head congratulates Jacqueline on completing her apprenticeship in Business Administration. 

The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London is leading the way for apprenticeships and encouraging young people to think about learning and earning.

Apprenticeships have always been a focal point for the College, offering placements in areas such as Business Administration, Retail, Construction, Early Years, Health, ICT, Youth Work, Sports and Housing.

Principal Paul Head, who sits on the Apprenticeship Task Force, said the College is very committed to providing apprenticeships.

"I was determined that as an organisation we had to show the way and get others involved in recognising the value of apprentices within the organisation. We employed an apprentice to work in the Principal's office to set the standard for the whole college.

"We expect to have about 10 apprentices working across the College during the next academic year and we have all been delighted with the contributions of our apprentices past and present," he said.

Six students will be working towards an apprenticeship in Business Administration and another four in Construction, including brickwork, plumbing and electrical.

Jacqueline, the apprentice in the Principal's office, had a background in childcare, but wanted a change in career. She said: "This apprenticeship has helped me improve my computer skills, office skills and I've learnt how to work as part of a team".

Jacqueline said after she first found out about the apprenticeships online, she sent in her application and then received a phone call from the College, asking her in for an interview.

"When applying for apprenticeships you choose your category but potentially you could be linked up with any company in that field. It was a nice surprise when I got a call from the College," she said.

Jacqueline believes she has grown in confidence and now has the self-assurance to complete a range of office tasks. "I've learnt a lot of valuable skills. An office environment is very different to working in childcare, but I'm glad I made the change because I really enjoy it."

On top of employing apprentices internally, the College also works in conjunction with various businesses and organisations in an effort to provide more apprenticeship opportunities for learners.

The Future Jobs Fund is just one example and sees the College teaming up with Haringey Council to get people trained, qualified and back into work.

More information on apprenticeships is available by contacting the College's course information line on 020 8442 3055, visiting www.conel.ac.uk or emailing courseinfo@staff.conel.ac.uk.