A TEENAGER who was taken on as an apprentice by a Fenland housing firm 18 months ago is urging young job-seekers to get involved in their employment scheme.

Tom Goddard, 19, began working as an apprentice hub administrator with Roddons - part of the Circle group - in November 2011 after hearing about the company’s scheme at college.

His hard work with the company has been recognised and he was rewarded with a full-time contract last year.

He said: “This has been my first real chance at working with a team of people.

“I have really enjoyed it. In a sense you’re getting paid to learn.

“I would definitely recommend an apprenticeship as it is a great opportunity. It gives people a chance to gain work experience and a qualification while earning money and it can really help you in the future.”

This week is National Apprenticeship Week, and Circle is providing 40 apprenticeship places over the next year, either within the organisation or with its partners or contractors.

The apprentices are paid the national minimum wage, over and above the apprenticeship salary.

Mr Goddard’s manager, Emma Hudson, senior hub administrator, said: “Tom is a fantastic advocate for apprenticeships. He’s a real asset to Roddons and it’s great that the scheme has enabled him to develop his skills and knowledge.

“Circle offers great benefits and plenty of opportunities for learning and development, and we look forward to taking on more people like Tom in the future”.

To find out more about apprenticeships, go to www.circleopportunities.org.uk