Three young people have benefited from an apprenticeship scheme through St Edmundsbury Borough Council which offers wage support to employers in small and medium sized businesses.

James Oakley, 19, from Great Bradley near Newmarket, Kirsty Foster, 17, and Victoria Gibson, 19 , both from Haverhill, have been taken on as Playwork Apprentices at Tiny Toes Childcare in Haverhill.

Amanda Ewings, Managing Director of Tiny Toes, said: “The scheme is a great way to introduce and encourage young people into the world of employment and training.

“Without the wage subsidy the Apprenticeship Scheme offers, it would not have been possible for me to employ four Apprentices, and hopefully in the future I can employ and help some more.”

Apprentice James Oakley said: “I submitted my CV to West Suffolk College at an Open Event in Haverhill. Michelle contacted me and, within a week, I had an interview appointment with Tiny Toes. I really appreciate the opportunity I have been given and I am enjoying my job.”

Amanda said: “The Apprentices have been a real asset to my business and within the Nursery they are enthusiastic, eager to learn and hard working. Michelle has been very supportive and is always at hand to help me when I contact her.”

Work Based Learning adviser Michelle Gibson said: “Tiny Toes has given four young people an excellent opportunity to work in a very friendly and supportive environment. It has been a pleasure to work in partnership with Amanda.”

For further information contact Michelle Gibson, Project Co-ordinator, on 01284 716388 or e-mail michelle.gibson@wsc.ac.uk