New Minister “inspired” by West Suffolk College Apprentices

Apprenticeship and Skills Minister Robert Halfon says he was “inspired” when he visited West Suffolk College in Bury St Edmunds.

The Minister, who took up his appointment in July, toured the College for an afternoon meeting Apprentices and staff in many different departments on his fact finding visit.

Among the Apprentices he talked to were those in engineering, pharmacy, hospitality, automative engineering, business administration and accountancy. He asked them about their experience of being an Apprentice, why they opted for an Apprenticeship and what they thought about the combination of work and training.

Afterwards Mr Halfon said “I was really inspired by all of the apprentices at West Suffolk College, and to hear what a positive impact their training has had on their lives and careers.

“Apprenticeships offer a ladder of opportunity for people of all ages and backgrounds. Thanks to the work of places like West Suffolk, many more people are getting the chance to reach their full potential.

“Apprenticeships are giving thousands of young people an education, training and the vital work experience they need for the jobs of the future.”

In the past 5 years over 2000 Learners have achieved their Apprenticeship through West Suffolk College which has a current achievement rate of 78% – 8% above the national average.

Apprenticeships are continuing to grow in popularity and in this academic year West Suffolk College is expecting to enrol over 1000 people onto an apprenticeship.

With photo showing;

Minister Robert Halfon, West Suffolk College Principal Dr Nikos Savvas, Vice Principal Employer Engagement Laraine Moody, Level 3 Automative Engineering Apprentice Stevie Squirrel.