Apprentice reaps the benefits of work-based learning

AN award-winning IT apprentice from Cardiff is now reaping the rewards of work-based learning after completing an apprenticeship with SIPHON, part of the Nuvias Group.

Niall Perks landed the opportunity to undertake a Level 2 apprenticeship in IT Software Web and Telecoms Professionals and is now on the way to carving out a successful career in IT and software development.

He said: “Earning while learning has given me a great deal of financial independence, so although I’m still living at home, I’m able to save about 75% of my monthly salary towards a house deposit.”

Jeff Bevins, technical operations director at SIPHON, said: “The apprentices have a quest for knowledge which in turn drives the senior engineers. It’s important to get the balance right but I see the apprenticeship programme as an important part of the company’s growth.”

The Apprenticeship Programme in Wales is funded by the Welsh Government with support from the European Social Fund.

Minister for Welsh Language and Lifelong Learning, Eluned Morgan, said: “Siphon is just one example of a company benefitting from the chance to train the next generation in the specialist skills it needs within its organisation. Apprenticeships are a key investment for employers and play an important role in improving the skills and nurturing the talent of Wales as a whole.”

To find out how your business could benefit from recruiting an apprentice, visit Skills Gateway for Business at www.businesswales.gov. wales/skillsgateway/ apprenticeships or call 03000 6 03000.