As a social enterprise organisation, Tees Active, which runs eight sites in Stockton-On-Tees, is keen to embrace the creation of Apprenticeship opportunities to utilise local young talent and develop new multi-skilled team members, who have the ability to work across a range of multi-sport venues, with a view to securing them long term employment.

Following a recent recruitment drive, supported by training partner and Apprenticeship provider, Lifetime, Tees Active has created Apprenticeship positions for ten 18-24 year olds across its sites and is enjoying the benefits that this form of training can deliver.

These government funded training programmes will help develop industry specific skills in the workplace as the apprentices start roles as Leisure Assistants, Health and Fitness Advisors and an Administrator on their way to gaining nationally recognised qualifications.

In addition to their Apprenticeship framework these young people will also have the opportunity to gain additional job-specific training qualifications including National Pool Lifeguarding, and First Aid. 

Kerry Swan, Development Workforce Manager said, "We're delighted to create Apprenticeship opportunities for local young people during a time when unemployment remains a major challenge across the Tees Valley.  Apprenticeships are a great way to inspire local young people to realise their own ambitions and get a head start in the fitness and active leisure industry.  It also benefits the company as young people bring enthusiasm and motivation to their roles, developing practical skills, valuable job experience and formal qualifications.

Nigel Wallace, Development Director at Lifetime, which will deliver the Tees Active Apprenticeships comments: "Tees Active's story demonstrates that the future does not need to be so daunting for young people who want to work in the fitness and active leisure industry. There are increasing numbers of alternative options out there to help individuals gain skills needed to kick start their careers, such as Government funded Apprenticeship programmes. Not only can these programmes arm young learners with sector specific knowledge, but they will also gain interpersonal qualities and professional maturity."

Tees Active has offered 10 candidates Apprenticeships that begin in March 2012. This policy is aligned with Government priorities to create and support young people into employment. Tees Active is working in partnership with Stockton Borough Council, Tees Achieve, Lifetime Training Group, Jigsaw Training and Middlesbrough and Teesside Philanthropic Foundation.