THE Guardian sent a former student back to college on Wednesday to help launch the 100 Days Apprenticeship Challenge.

Coinciding with National Apprenticeship Week, the Guardian has joined forces with Mid Cheshire College and is calling on the support of local businesses to help generate 100 apprenticeship places in 100 days.

As a graduate of the college’s business management course, the Guardian’s advertising supervisor Donna Gill was delighted to attend the apprentice open day at the Hartford Campus, where she gave a talk to students and potential employers.

“I’m really excited to be part of this campaign and looking forward to completing our challenge,” said Donna.

“It was great to get back to the college and offer my support, speaking to students and employers – we’ve got 13 weeks now to hit the target.

“There are so many new opportunities for apprentices at Mid Cheshire; the Sports Hall where I gave my speech in wasn’t even built when I studied there!

“Any local businesses who wish to get involved should contact me and I’ll be delighted to help them.”

Apprenticeships have always been in demand in traditional occupations, but new opportunities are increasingly developing from entry level right up to foundation degrees.

The Mid Cheshire 100 Days Apprenticeship Challenge is open to any employer, be they a large multi-national or small to medium employer.

Editor Carla Flynn added: “We are proud to be launching this challenge and we are looking forward to it being a real success story for Mid Cheshire.”

Mid Cheshire College is currently working with more than 600 learners and around 200 organisations to provide an extensive work-based learning provision.

Last year 122 learners achieved an apprenticeship qualification.

Richard Hollywood, principal of Mid Cheshire College, said: “The college has a long and successful history of working in partnership with local employers.

“As an ‘outstanding’ specialist provider in vocational education and training we help young people and adults acquire the skills they need to obtain employment.”

Any businesses interested in taking on an apprentice should contact Donna Gill on 01606 813645 or at dgill@guardiangrp.co.uk