THE DIVERSE roles that apprentices do were celebrated during National Apprenticeship Week.

Island Futures held an event at Lord Louis Library on Thursday, March 7, to showcase the different schemes on offer on the Island.

Ryde Academy celebrated by highlighting some of the diverse roles their apprentices do. The school currently has three apprentices — Jay Henley, admin and marketing, Anya Hill, business apprentice, and Leah Mead, teaching assistant.

Principal Joy Ballard said: "We are lucky with the calibre of the applicants we receive and are incredibly proud of the progress they make.

"Apprenticeships are such an important route into the world of work as they give young people the chance to learn valuable skills while gaining work experience. As an employer we get enthusiastic and talented individuals who contribute to the organisation in such a positive way.

"Two of our current apprentices are also former students so are good role models for current students thinking about options after GCSEs."

Jay won the Rising Star award at AET's Annual Apprenticeship Awards.

He said: "My role involves a wide range of tasks including working on reception, working with subject departments, careers and also creating the weekly parent newsletter and helping to manage the academy's social media.

"Working in a school, I have come to love seeing how the students learn and progress. I was surprised how much of this aspect of the job I enjoy and have even started running a chess club."

Anya said: "No two days are the same in my role, which helps me develop a wider range of skills. As part of my role I deal with student attendance, plan events such as the Year 11 careers fair, and also work on the pastoral side. I recently left the sixth form and feel I can help guide current students as I have just been through the same experience."

Leah added: "There were many reasons why the apprenticeship route was appealing to me. It would allow me to work, gain experience and become qualified in my chosen field while on the job.

"I wouldn't have done it any other way and I hope others will choose apprenticeships as it is a great way into your chosen career."