Severnside welcome new apprentices

Published by Matt Critchley for Severnside Housing in Housing and also in Communities, Education

Three local young people have taken their first steps on the career ladder with apprenticeships and work experience placements at Severnside Housing.

Severnside has welcomed the opportunity to train and develop young people by working with current members of staff to help them gain the skills and confidence they will need to be successful in their future and providing an insight into a real working environment.

The apprentices were chosen from a large number of applicants and have a variety of previous work and educational experience, but all three aim to use their time with Severnside to gain valuable work experience and improve their career prospects.

Molly Cowperthwaite, aged 16, has recently completed her GCSE’s and found her apprenticeship through Connexions. Whilst with Severnside for 12 months, she will be based in the Legal departments, dealing with complaints, enquiries, insurance and other legal issues. 

Stuart McNab is 19 and graduated from Shrewsbury Sixth Form in 2010. He has joined Severnside on a 12 month business apprenticeship, over the twelve months he will have attachments to several different departments, getting an overview of how the social housing provider operates. Stuart is also a football coach for the Shrewsbury Up & Comers under 9’s team and volunteers with the Salvation Army.

Adam Pahal, aged 24, graduated from Keele University in 2009 before spending a year working abroad. He has joined the Severnside Marketing & Communications department on an eight week work placement through Job Centre Plus. Adam also volunteers at the Hive Music and Media Centre in Shrewsbury, where he organises live music events for young people.

Sue Barker, Head of Human Resources said:  “Severnside is delighted to be able to offer opportunities to young people in the form of apprenticeships and work placements. These generate considerable benefits, both for the individual and for the employer, and they are an excellent way of training, developing and skilling people for the future.”