Assembly rolls out apprentice scheme after successful pilot
23 October 2013
The National Assembly for Wales is rolling out its apprenticeship programme after the pilot scheme proved a success.
In September last year, four young people were selected to work in various directorates across the Assembly.
They proved excellent additions to the Assembly’s team and all passed their NVQ in Business Administration exams in the process.
Due to that initial success, we will now advertise for a new intake next year.
“With youth unemployment running at such a high level in the current economic climate, we should all do everything we can to try to offer some young people, from a diverse range of backgrounds, the opportunity to develop their skills through work opportunities,” said the Assembly’s Presiding Officer, Rosemary Butler AM.
“The first cohort of apprentices has proved an excellent addition to our teams across the organisation and the National Assembly now wants to offer the same opportunity to more young people.”
The four apprentices taken on last year have benefitted from the range of career paths available at the Assembly, working in departments such as Human Resources, Translation, Facilities Management and Assembly Member Support.
“Starting as an apprentice at the National Assembly for Wales was the best career decision I have ever made,” said Melissa Nichols, 23, of Cyncoed, Cardiff, who worked in the Commission and Members’ Support service area.
“I have not only achieved an NVQ in Business Administration but also gained invaluable on-the-job experience.
“I see my colleagues as real role models for my development and I continue to learn from them.
“I am delighted to say I am now a permanent member of staff within the Commission and Member Support Service and I look forward to a rewarding career with the Assembly.”
Zoe Kelland, 20, of Rhoose, who worked in the Translation and Front of House teams, added: “One of the best things I have gained is a possible job opportunity. I have also gained an NVQ in Business and Administration.
“I have learnt so much being an Apprentice. I have developed my IT skills andmy communication skills, I have represented the Assembly at London’s British Irish Parliamentary Reporting Association event and at the Eisteddfod. I have met so many people and thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Assembly.
Morgan Reeves, 19, of Maesteg, who has spent his apprenticeship in Facilities Management, said: “The Apprenticeship Scheme has provided me with an invaluable opportunity to understand the operation of the Assembly and gain skills in a key public sector organisation.
“Throughout the duration of the scheme, I have matured and gained belief in myself and my work.
“I have developed excellent working relationships together with administration and facilities based skills. The National Assembly is a great place to work and offers many possible career paths.”
Emily Morgan, 22, of Barry, who works in Human Resources, added: “This Apprenticeship has been an invaluable experience which has given me the skills, qualifications, knowledge and work experience needed to obtain a permanent job role in the Assembly.
“I have gained a nationally recognised qualification and I have enjoyed working with different people, facing new challenges, learning new skills and being a part of Assembly life.”
For further information about the scheme and how to apply, visit http://www.assemblywales.org/gethome/working/recruitment/jobs.htm
Or get more information @assemblywales