City of Bristol College has employed 12 new Apprentices as part of its ongoing efforts to support the local economy in the recession.

Using a combination of on and off the job training, the College’s Apprentices gain work experience for four days each week, with a day release for one day at College.

The Apprenticeships are in Business Administration and allow Apprentices to gain valuable training while working towards a work-based learning qualification such as an NVQ Level 2 or 3. The Apprentices will work and train at the College for one year.

Gain work experience and learn new skills

“Apprenticeships offer an exciting opportunity to gain experience of work and learn new skills for the future,” said Les Caunce, Head of Human Resources and Organisational Development at City of Bristol College.

“As a large and supportive employer with centres in Bristol and South Gloucestershire, this scheme gives our Apprentices a real opportunity to succeed.

Supporting the region's recovery out of the recession

“While the recession has brought many challenges, we’re committed to helping the region’s economy to recover. This includes helping individuals to maximise their employability, change jobs or gain work.”

Earn a recognised qualification

Business Administration Apprentice Larissa Cato says of her experience: “I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do when I left school; doing this Apprenticeship has allowed me to realise what it is I want to do with my life. Eventually, I want to go on to do health and social care, using my NVQ to start my own childminding business.”

“I tried everything I could to get a job after college, but it was really difficult because I didn’t have any work experience,” said Apprentice Stephanie Cox. “An Apprenticeship allows me to gain valuable experience as well as a qualification, killing two birds with one stone.”

One of the country's largest Apprenticeship providers

City of Bristol College now employs one Apprentice for every 147 members of staff. Government statistics show that on average, top councils are creating one apprenticeship for every 248 members employees*.

City of Bristol College is one of the country’s largest providers of Apprentices within further education and offers over 20 specialist areas from Carpentry to Craft Bakery and Hair Dressing to Heavy Vehicle.

Interested in starting an Apprenticeship?

For more information about Apprenticeships at City of Bristol College call 0117 312 5000, email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or see our Apprenticeship webpages.