Barchester apprenticeship scheme changing young lives

The Barchester Healthcare apprenticeship scheme and training programme is changing the lives of its young apprentices every day.

Speaking at the Department for Work and Pensions National Employer Event yesterday, Barchester Healthcare’s Head of Vocational Qualifications, Paul Middleton, spoke alongside representatives from ISS UK, Marks and Spencer and the BBC to highlight the value of the care provider's apprenticeship training programme within Barchester.

Barchester Healthcare supports youth employment throughout the UK and believes the young people on its apprenticeship programme are invaluable to the future of the business and the care sector as a whole.

Paul Middleton said: “Often young people have not been exposed to the care industry so have not even thought about a career in care.  Once on one of our variety of apprenticeship programmes, young apprentices can see how passionate we are about the industry, and the very rewarding and satisfying career path that is available to them within the sector.  There are various opportunities within Barchester Healthcare homes for a fulfilling career, from nursing and care worker positions, to becoming a housekeeper or even a chef.”

One of Barchester Healthcare’s young apprentices, Keri Gregory, spoke at the Department for Work and Pensions National Employer Event about the Barchester apprenticeship programme. Keri works at Queen’s Court care home in Wimbledon and spoke about how she has blossomed in her role as Apprentice carer.

Keri said: “I am so happy that I applied for my apprenticeship within Barchester’s Queen’s Court care home.  I had initially thought I would like to become a paramedic but because of my experience here I have decided I want to train to become a nurse.  Gaining hands on experience by doing an apprenticeship with Barchester has given me the opportunity to learn what nurses do day-to-day and I’m excited about my career development possibilities. It has also helped me build up my confidence and I hadn't realised just how much fun working in a care home could be. The residents are fantastic and I work in a very supportive environment!"

Paul goes on to say: â€œIt is very important that we attract young people like Keri to come and work for us – it ensures the future success of the care sector.  We work closely with Jobcentre Plus and the National Apprentice Service to help us recruit our work experience, traineeships and apprenticeship positions.  We have over 200 homes throughout the UK that offer a wide variety of roles, from caring to catering, administration and customer services.”