Pictured above: Elise Humphreys.
A young shrewsbury woman is celebrating after completing an
apprenticeship in Health and Social Care in record time, with
County Training.
Elise Humphreys, from Coton Hill, works as a carer at Maesbury
Manor, which is a private home in Oswestry. Wishing to develop her
existing skills and enhance her work based knowledge, Elise joined
County Training's apprenticeship programme, in February
2008.
County Training, part of Shropshire Council, provide a range of
apprenticeships, for 16 - 18 year olds. Apprenticeships offer
government funded training and are one of the key tools identified
for the raising of skill levels nationally. They offer a 'win win'
situation - employers raise the skills of their workplace to
recognised standards, resulting in increased efficiency and
productivity, while young people gain 'real' paid work and receive
training towards a nationally recognised qualification.
As part of her apprenticeship, Elise completed an NVQ Level 2 in
Health and Social Care, Key Skills Level 1 in Application of Number
and Communications and a Technical Certificate. She completed her
qualification in an amazing 67 weeks, two months quicker than the
average time taken.
She commented "Achieving my NVQ has given me so much confidence
at work and I have learnt so much whilst completing the
qualification. I have also received a lot of support and
guidance from both County Training and my employer which has really
helped me to develop my skills. I am now looking forward to working
on my level 2 certificate in communications."
Two other members of staff, Jenna Morris and Jenny Jones, at the
home have also recently worked towards their apprenticeships in
Health and Social Care.
Becky and Paige Smith employ their own care team to meet all of
their personal needs and assist them with their daily living and
social activities.
Susan Smith, mother of the young ladies that the staff care for,
said " The skills Elise has developed and the qualifications that
other members of staff have achieved have had a really
positive effect on our work. Staff are more confident, and my
daughters are receiving an enhanced level of quality care."
Councillor Steve Charmley is urging Shropshire Businesses to
consider the benefits apprenticeship bring "Apprenticeships are
proving valuable in many sectors of industry and commerce - in
traditional areas as well as more contemporary professions" He said
"If you employ staff between the age of 16 - 18 or if you are
thinking of recruiting new young staff, why not consider an
apprentice? Equip your business with a skilled workforce that
can help you weather tough market conditions and emerge stronger
when the upturn comes."
If you are aged 16 - 18 and are interested in an apprenticeship,
or if you are a business looking to recruit bright, motivated and
competent young people seeking apprenticeship opportunities
throughout Shropshire, of if you have existing staff aged 16 - 18
who would benefit from free training, contact County
Training on 01743 255191.