06 Feb 12

Nick Callaghan receives his apprenticeship prize from Dr Stephen Goss

6-10 February is National Apprenticeship Week, which is designed to raise the profile of apprenticeships amongst employers, teachers, parents and individuals.

The University runs its own apprenticeship scheme. The scheme began in its current form in 2007 when existing departmental arrangements were formalised and expanded. The three-year programme now includes on-the-job training alongside formal training at a technical college.

Over the past two years, 12 apprentices have undertaken training in a range of subjects, with posts ranging from lab technicians to audio-visual support. Among them are Fay Chicken and Nick Callaghan who have recently completed their apprenticeships and started work as technicians in their departments. Nick (pictured above) was awarded the apprenticeship prize for his high standard of college work and for representing the University by working in the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory in Harwell.

University departments who are interested in employing an apprentice should contact the Apprenticeship Scheme Leader, Jaya John John at j.john1@physics.ox.ac.uk.