BRITISH Gas Oxford will recruit 10 apprentices in a new deal with Abingdon and Witney College.

The teenage trainees will join the customer service team to help earn a NVQ level three qualification, the equivalent to A/AS levels, and the chance for a full-time job.

Apprentices, who will be recruited for the 12-month programme this summer, will also complete the Duke of Edinburgh Award during their training.

Since the overall scheme launched in September 2012, 15 apprentices are now in full-time roles at the John Smith Drive centre, with seven set to qualify in September.

One of them is 16-year-old Ryan Collins, from Bicester, who joined after leaving Cooper School last year with 12 GCSEs.

He said: “I was going to go to college to study business but the course would only have meant being in college three days a week. With the apprenticeship, it meant I’d gain a qualification and be working full-time. It is such a great opportunity for someone of my age.

“I’ve come into a large company, got to learn about different parts of the business and I’ve met so many new people.

“I’m looking forward to becoming an account manager in September when I qualify and plan to work hard to become a team manager.”

Oxford East MP Andrew Smith: “I very much welcome the announcement of these additional local apprenticeships.

“Having previously met British Gas apprentices on site earlier this year, I know just what a good opportunity this is for local young people.”


 

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