Opportunity knocks for apprentices
16 February 2011
Young apprentices and trainees in the city were rewarded for their hard work at a special awards ceremony last week.
The Manchester People into Construction Trainee Awards ceremony at the City of Manchester Stadium, run by Manchester City Council, recognised the achievement of apprentices and trainees over the last 12 months.
Fifty young apprentices attended the ceremony with eight receiving awards in 100% attendance, most improved and trainee of the year categories.
The winner of the overall Trainee of the Year 2010 award was 19-year-old Oliver Cross, from Moston who is currently undertaking a two-year apprenticeship in carpentry and joinery at The Manchester College.
Oliver is working as a joiner on the Bowes Street regeneration project - a major housing development in Moss Side - under GB Building Solutions. Roofing manager Chris Jones, who mentored Oliver said: "Oliver's continuous interest in progressing in his chosen trade is inspiring and has made him stand out to me, his manager, and all his colleagues. He is a true team player and his title of trainee of the year is truly deserved."
Oliver said: "I enjoy working on such a large project and after only a few days I felt like I had always worked there, and with such a good team. I am really pleased to have won trainee of the year."
Councillor Sameem Ali, executive member for employment and skills said: "The young people who have been part of the apprenticeship project have done phenomenally well over the last year and I would like to extend my congratulations to all of them.
"It is important that the apprentices take the opportunities given to them and use the practical experience and the qualifications and skills gained to put them in a good position with potential employers in the future."
The 'Young People in Construction' project started in July 2008 with the aim of opening up opportunities for young people aged between 16 -25 in the construction industry. In total 99 apprentices have gone through the scheme with 57 finding permanent jobs as a result of it. The initiative became 'Manchester People into Construction' in 2010 as the opportunities are now available for people of all ages.
