CWU Young members head to No10 Downing St to celebrate success

A celebration of apprenticeships took place at 10 Downing Street, Monday 2nd November and two young members were there to represent the CWU.

Stephanie Harrison 22 BT Wholesale in Wolverhampton and Ben Haycox 20 in BT Operate also from Wolverhampton both attended the event to represent the CWU with Billy Hayes GS.

Ben said 'it was an unbelievable experience and although a little nervous I was surprised at how relaxed and welcome we were made to feel'.

Around 40 apprentices joined ministers and union officials as well as employers to celebrate the success of apprenticeships over the last year. This is due to continue and there is expected to be a record 250,000 apprentices beginning their training this year.

The Prime minister, Gordon Brown, got to meet apprentices from across the UK and hear of their experiences and the benefits that training and a properly supported apprenticeship has brought them.

Also in attendance were employers who have successful apprenticeship programmes in place as well as unions who have been vital in supporting and building apprenticeships across the UK.

Stephanie said 'As an ex BT apprentice, I have been very fortunate to have a very good wage, an excellent apprenticeship framework and a full time role waiting for me when my apprentice lifetime expired-however, I know that if this was not the case, I would want someone to turn to'.

TUC general secretary, Brendan Barber, said 'Apprentices are playing a vital role in our economy and unions are playing a big role in working with employers to increase the number of apprentices.

'We want to see the number of apprenticeships increased and to build on the success already achieved. This event will showcase that success and highlight the value to both business and the wider economy of apprenticeships.'