Young apprentices gain job skills working for Tower Hamlets Council

Two young people have gained skills and experience to help them find work thanks to an apprenticeship scheme run by Tower Hamlets Council.

Taslima Begum, 18, from Stepney, and Misbaul Faim, 19, from Burdett Road, are currently working as apprentices for the council as part of the Mayor’s Apprenticeships programme.

Applicants are introduced to the scheme through the council’s Skillsmatch service, and take an online assessment in English and Maths before being interviewed.

Successful candidates are then offered a range of placements, including administration, health and social care, building control and catering.

More than 60 young people gained an NVQ after completing the scheme last year, and many go on to secure permanent jobs.

Taslima said: “The apprenticeship gives me the chance to gain a qualification while I get experience from working. So far it’s been great fun and I have learnt a lot.”

Misbaul said: “I feel this apprenticeship has given me a crucial opportunity at a pivotal point in my life, especially as I wasn’t in education or employment before starting the scheme.”

To sign up for Skillsmatch call 0207 364 3727 or visit towerhamlets.gov.uk/Skillsmatch.