West Cheshire College is highlighting  National Apprenticeship Week (March 3-7) by praising the achievements of one apprentice who has secured a permanent job and is now studying a masters degree.

Former West Cheshire College apprentice Natalie Bennett secured a permanent job as a human resources (HR) and learning development administrator for one of the region’s leading companies, Capenhurst Nuclear Services.

Natalie, 23, completed a two year business administration apprenticeship with the company after choosing an apprenticeship instead of university.

Natalie said: “When I finished college I didn’t want to go to university as I wasn’t sure of the benefits of going and getting into a lot of debt.

“I got in touch with West Cheshire College to get advice on the options available and they told me about the different apprenticeships they have.

“The apprenticeship was fantastic, not only did I get lots of experience but it also helped me to develop my interpersonal skills and confidence as I worked with a wide range of people.”

Natalie added:“I would not have been able to progress to my job as a HR and learning development administrator without my apprenticeship.

“Recently I also started a masters degree at Glyndwr University studying human resource management so I’ve eventually gone to university but I’ve got a job and experience as well.”

Carolyn Taylor, HR manager at Capenhurst Nuclear Services, said: “We have been delighted with Natalie’s progress at the company.

“Having an apprentice meant that we could develop Natalie’s skills and give her varied experience in departments across the organisation whilst she learnt key skills through her studies at the college. It has been beneficial for both Natalie and the business.

“Due to Natalie’s success within the company, we are considering taking on more apprentices in the future.”

For those interested in an apprenticeship or studying full-time or part-time courses, the college has a showcase event today (Wednesday March 5) from 3pm to 7pm at the Ellesmere Port campus which will be a one-stop shop of advice and information.

People can apply for and start an apprenticeship throughout the year and can even apply for one during the event.

The college says that every year it delivers apprenticeship programmes for hundreds of people in a wide range of industries including business administration, accountancy, marketing, construction, engineering and motor vehicle, health and social care, childcare, IT, hospitality and catering, hair and beauty and creative and digital media.

For more information about apprentices at the college call the hotline on 01244 656555, visit www.west-cheshire.ac.uk or pop into the Ellesmere Port or Chester campus to pick up a copy of the prospectus.