A HUGE growth in the number of apprenticeships has been seen at Weston College, as young people look for alternatives in a tough job market.

Applications went up by 113 per cent at the college last year and interest continues to build as 2012 gets under way.

Former Backwell School student, Neil Wrigley, completed a hospitality apprenticeship at the college and is now the head chef at Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar and Grill, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Cadbury House, in Congresbury.

Neil, who lives in Weston, completed the apprenticeship while working at the restaurant.

He said: “I would encourage people 100 per cent to do an apprenticeship. It gives you an insight into the industry, you learn about the rules and ethos of an organisation and the experience could lead to a rewarding career.”

February 6 sees the start of National Apprenticeship Week, and Weston College is hosting two events to introduce young people to the idea of paid, on-the-job training.

An apprentice shop is being opened in Weston’s Sovereign Shoppinng Centre on February 4-11, offering information, advice and free taster sessions in catering, textiles design, beauty therapy and more.

There is also an open evening at the college’s Knightstone campus on February 8, between 5-8pm.