Apprentice’s backing for skills drive

Pictured (left to right) are Barry Ferris and Gareth Harkness who feature in the Skills to Succeed apprenticeship advertisement. INCT 35-708-CON

Employment and Learning Minister Dr Stephen Farry has launched a further roll-out of Skills to Succeed, which will highlight a number of initiatives including the Youth Employment Scheme, Apprenticeships and Essential Skills.

Ryobi Aluminium Castings engineering apprentice Gareth Harkness and his engineering manager Barry Ferris are both featured in the apprenticeship campaign.

Gareth said: “I did well at school and I wanted to get out in the workforce and start earning. An apprenticeship was the smart way for me to achieve this.

“Whilst at Northern Regional College I learnt new and innovative techniques in the use of modern Robotics, Computer Aided Design and Control Panels. With the help of Ryobi Aluminium Castings I am able to further develop and integrate this learning to production techniques.”

Further information on the Skills to Succeed campaign encouraging the public and employers to find out what programmes and assistance is available on http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/skills or by calling 0300 200 7876.