BRIO Leisure is encouraging young people to look at apprenticeship schemes to boost their future career chances.

The community interest company has been so impressed by the talent they’ve uncovered they are urging others to look at the initiative.

Brio has recruited a team of young people at its centres including Northwich and Winsford. Apprentices train across a range of leisure related jobs or specialise in a specific role.

Ash Hancock, 19, from Rudheath in Northwich, joined the Brio team at Northwich Memorial Court last August.

“I’ve worked in different roles across the business from being on the reception desk to training as a lifeguard. I’ve also worked on events when we have performances at the centre and in the food court – preparing and serving food. I love the variety and different experience I’m getting” he said.

Ash left Rudheath High School to study a BTEC qualification in Sports Performance and Excellence. Most of his friends went to university but he decided full time study wasn’t for him.

“I’m someone who likes to get on and do things, so my apprenticeship allows me to stay busy while still learning. Everyone at Brio has been great. You don’t know anything when you first start but all you need to do is ask questions and people are more than happy to help” said Ash.

His is a year-long apprenticeship and he’s hoping that the experience he’s gaining will open up longer term progression within the company.

“I’d love to be a duty manager at one of the centres in the future” he added.

Brio Leisure managing director Elly McFahn encouraged other local employers to consider the apprenticeship programme. She’s been delighted by the enthusiasm of the young people joining the business and believes it’s a great way to find staff who can develop within the company.

“Our apprentice scheme is also designed to enable career pathways in a wide array of areas. We are very pleased with the success so far and hope our apprentices will inspire other young people to achieve the same as them,” she added. Additionally we love having a balanced workforce in terms of age as we have customers from all walks of life, and it’s great to be able to interact with people you can relate to’.

Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with study and learning, meaning you “earn while you learn” by working alongside experienced staff. It can take between one and four years to complete an apprenticeship.

Brio offers lots of different types of apprenticeships, from roles such as leisure attendants, sports attendants or in catering as well as roles in finance, human resources and marketing.

To find out more about apprenticeships and vacancies at Brio Leisure visit www.brioleisure.org/careers