Hugh Christie Technology College chosen as the training provider for Northgate Managed Services IT apprenticeship scheme in Kent
17 February 2011
Ten new IT apprentices from Kent will be starting their 18-month training programme with Hugh Christie Technology College, Tonbridge, as part of a new apprenticeship scheme from Northgate Managed Services.
The apprentices will be attending the college one day per week to study for their NVQ Level 3 IT systems and support. As part of the Northgate's 'earn as you learn' apprenticeship, this will be combined with hands-on training, with each Apprentice working as a trainee IT engineer in some of the schools in Kent that Northgate currently provides services to.
As with every Northgate employee, each apprentice is given their own personal development plan with a mixture of online and classroom training which develops core skills and competencies such as communication, time management, customer service, problem solving and many more.
Andy Ross, Chief Executive of Northgate Managed Services, commented: "As a successful and growing IT services company we are committed to working with young people in the communities where we are based. By offering an IT Apprenticeship Scheme to school leavers, we are developing a qualified and talented workforce that will help us grow our business and provide Kent with an influx of new IT talent. Hugh Christie is an exemplar school at the forefront of educational technology to drive teaching and learning. We are proud to be working with such an inspirational team of people to help deliver vital on-the-job training as part of our new apprenticeship scheme."
Jon Barker, Principal of Hugh Christie Technology College, commented: "We are delighted to be involved with the IT apprenticeship scheme. Our partnership with Northgate has been a great success and has facilitated the continuing development of technology at the school. The apprenticeship scheme is an exciting further extension of this partnership. Together with Northgate, we will provide outstanding training for the apprentices which will enable them to develop a career in an important area. I hope that some will enjoy their return to school so much that they may consider the valuable role of supporting IT within the school environment in the future."
Sarah Hohler, Kent County Council Cabinet Member for Education, Learning and Skills, said: "Kent has championed apprenticeships for a number of years. The Northgate Managed Services scheme offers young people a fantastic opportunity to gain practical skills and work experience while working towards a nationally-recognised qualification. These modern apprenticeships are exactly the type of initiative we need to deliver to make sure that students are equipped to meet the needs of a 21st century workforce."
Each apprentice is allocated a mentor and 'buddy' to support and advise them throughout the programme. On completion of the scheme, every successful apprentice will hold a formal NVQ qualification, possess 18 months of work experience and the potential for them to move into permanent positions in Northgate.
Northgate's Apprenticeship Scheme marks an important extension to its two-year partnership with Hugh Christie, which has seen the school maximise its ICT efficiency and offer students the best education using technology. Helping to convert young people's enthusiasm for technology into a profession they can excel in Hugh Christie, as the chosen training provider, is helping to train the area's next generation of IT talent as part of the 18-month programme.
Apprenticeships are still available in the Kent area. To apply, candidates must hold a GCSE in Maths and English and most importantly have an interest and passion for ICT. For further information or to apply, please visit the web site at www.northgate-is.com/managedservices or alternatively email info@northgate-is.com
