Hat-trick of young learners score apprenticeships at Foundation of Light

To mark National Apprenticeship Week, Foundation of Light is sharing the successes of the hat-trick of young people currently learning their trade with Sunderland AFC’s official charity.

Head of the Skills department, Michael Colclough, says that the organisation ‘has a duty to help people shine’ and the Foundation has long provided apprenticeship opportunities, with many former trainees still working within the charity.

Within the current crop of budding stars are IT Support apprentice, Dylan Aiston, and Business Admin apprentices, Oliver Collinson and Charli Head.

Oliver was recognised internally as star player by fellow staff for his helpfulness in quarter three of 2023 and is representing the Foundation at the Great Apprenticeship Bake Off in Grantham. He appreciates just how wide-ranging his apprenticeship has been.

“My roles range from uploading information onto our database, to supporting cooking sessions in the kitchen,” Oliver commented.

“The job is unique as it is not repetitive, with different tasks every day, and I really enjoy that no two days are the same.

“I enjoy working for the charity of my football club, getting the chance to wear the badge with extreme pride to work. The qualification that I am doing is beneficial for my knowledge and CV, while gaining work experience and a wage at the same time.”

The variety of tasks is also something that Charli has appreciated while working with the Foundation.

The business admin apprentice said: “I work alongside different departments, supporting them with everyday tasks from paperwork to supporting in sessions.

“I enjoy being able to work and learn on the job whilst completing my qualification, as well as meeting new people and learning new skills.

“I feel as though I have been given great experience for future work.”

Dylan has become a key member of the Foundation’s IT department since joining in September.

“My main roles involve maintaining and setting up the IT in the building, making sure that all staff have access to fully working equipment,” Dylan said.

“I’ve met a lot of great people through the apprenticeship. I get the opportunity to learn while on the job in a field that I enjoy, while starting to earn money.

“I feel that it has definitely opened my horizons for a career in IT with a good qualification and experience to set me up for the future.”

The positive impact that apprenticeships can have on both individuals and employers is highlighted by the impression that the trio has made so far.

Michael Colclough, who heads up the Skills team at the Foundation, added: “Apprenticeships give people the opportunity to grow and shine, whilst helping employers recruit on both personal qualities and professional skills.

“I would recommend employers to have an open mindset towards apprenticeships, take the chance and help both a person and your business grow.

“Foundation of Light is proud to recruit apprentices, providing local people with local opportunities. We have a duty to help people shine through creating both a professional and learning environment, helping people to become their best self.

“It is vital to diversify the workforce, apprentices can do this, they can contribute to business growth and certainly strengthen recruitment strategies.”