Here’s my latest Ham and High Column about the apprenticeship event I’m hosting on Wednesday….

A few columns ago, I wrote about the importance of young people getting into work, and how creating one million new jobs was the Liberal Democrat’s top priority in Government.

This month, I am doing my bit to put these words into action. On Wednesday 14^th August, I am hosting an event at the Civic Centre (between 2pm and 6pm) to match up young or unemployed people in Haringey with companies and agencies offering apprenticeships.

People who attend will get the chance to meet the companies and ask for information on their apprenticeship opportunities, and advice on how to apply.

We have a number of companies already confirmed – including Barclays, Kruger Associates and Diversity in Visual Arts. There will also be companies with greater emphasis on manufacturing and manual apprenticeships.

These companies are actively recruiting – so you may even be able to fill out an application form on the day.

The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London – along with other training groups – will be there with information on the wide range of apprenticeships that they are advertising.

There will also be some workshops available, for people to get some advice on applications, writing CVs, and money management. I will be there talking about starting your own business – something I did myself many years ago.

I have been working in tandem with Wood Green Jobcentre Plus, to make sure the event is a success and as helpful as possible to Haringey residents.

The Government Ambassador for Apprenticeships, Gordon Birtwistle MP, will also be there to talk with both businesses and the people looking for an apprenticeship.

Hopefully – this will be the first step for many people in securing an apprenticeship – maybe even with one of the companies at the event!

An apprenticeship is a great way to kick start a career. They take between one and four years to complete and combine practical training in a job with study. That means you get paid to study and learn a trade, whilst also being able to make contacts in an industry.

And you get a qualification too – an advanced level apprenticeship is equivalent to two A level passes, and others can lead to the attainment of a Foundation Degree!

So if you are a young person, unemployed or looking for a new challenge, do come down to the Civic Centre (High Road, Wood Green, London, N22 8LE) on the 14^th August between 2pm and 6pm to meet employers and find out more!