Robert Buckland MP visited Nationwide earlier this week to meet apprentices at work in South Swindon and to celebrate National Apprenticeship Week 2018, which runs from 5th to 9th March.
Coordinated by the National Apprenticeship Service, National Apprenticeship Week 2018 is the 11th annual week-long celebration of apprenticeships in England and is designed to celebrate apprenticeships and the positive impact they have on individuals, businesses, local communities and the wider economy.
During the week, employers and apprentices from across England will come together to celebrate the success of apprenticeships whilst encouraging even more people to choose an apprenticeship as the pathway to a great career.
Whilst at Nationwide, Robert met a group of apprentices and learned more about the vital role they play within the Society. He commented: “I really enjoyed meeting a group of engaged and enthusiastic apprentices today here at Nationwide. I was pleased to have had the opportunity to talk about how their apprenticeships are working, what their aspirations are and why they chose this path. It was good to discuss degree apprenticeships as a growing opportunity for young people who want an alternative to University.
“Apprenticeships give young people the skills they need to succeed in life, in a role they want to make progress in. They give employers the opportunity to mould and shape the workforce and deliver skills with real value in the jobs market.”
Gill Hill, Director of Engagement and Leadership at Nationwide added: “Nationwide was pleased to welcome Robert to meet with some of our new apprentices. Our apprenticeship programme gives us access to high quality talent we need to ensure the Society continues to thrive and offer the best service to our members.
“At Nationwide our apprentices are very much part of the team. They join the Society in real jobs from the start of their employment and with a starting salary of circa £16,000. We are excited to be increasing our focus on degree apprenticeships while still welcoming apprentices studying at various levels.”
This event is just one of hundreds of events taking place across England to celebrate National Apprenticeship Week 2018. More information on National Apprenticeship Week 2018 can be found by visiting http://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/national-apprenticeship-week-2018-naw-2018