Simpson highlights apprenticeship benefits

Speaking after addressing students at Banbridge High School as part of Apprenticeship Week 2012 Careers Week, Mr Simpson said there were other routes to a career other than through university.

“Many young people think that the only way into a well paid job and career is by way of university and for many young people that is precisely the correct choice and career path,” he said. “But we have seen many justifiable concerns expressed in recent times about university courses in subjects that have little or no value when it comes to employability in the work place.”

Speaking from his own experience as an apprentice butcher, Mr Simpson told students how he went on to start his own business 30 years ago.

“This was a great opportunity for me and I want to let young people know that apprenticehip can be a good way into employment,” Mr Simpson added. “I want to thank everyone at Banbridge High School for the welcome they afforded for this briefing and also for the tremendous work they continue to do in preparing young people for the work place.”