Playing a long game

It is a brute fact that the supply outstrips demand in an age where youth unemployment has reached its tipping point, with the figure standing at one million people, nationally.

However, this year thousands of new apprenticeships are expected to be created, with hundreds of companies in Kirklees keen to get involved.

There is light at the end of the tunnel and in the long-term successful apprentices can go on to forge long, sustainable and rewarding careers.

Ashley Gibson, 23, from Roberttown, completed an apprenticeship in applied mechanical engineering in 2009 after studying at Kirklees College’s Huddersfield site.

Three years on, he is now a machine engineer for Batley-based Moorland Tools Limited.

“My job involves machining on the CNC machines and designing and making the parts that are needed to make tools,” the former Castle Hall pupil said.

“I was at Moorland Tools already so we approached Kirklees College to see if an apprenticeship was feasible.

“They were very accommodating and it worked out really well as it was the nearest and the best course for me.”

Asked what advice he could offer for would-be apprentices, Ashley said hard work is key.

“I’d recommend going to college and definitely going into engineering as the industry is picking up.

“You’d need to be prepared to work hard and work as part of a team with good communications skills, but it is well worth the effort,” he added.