Lads have a ball in new jobs

NORTH Lanarkshire teenagers are about to embark on an apprenticeship programme which will introduce them into the exciting world of sport.

The group of eight young people, aged 16 to 19 years old, will be involved in major sporting events including the Commonwealth Games flag handover as part of the apprenticeship programme which is being run by North Lanarkshire Leisure, North Lanarkshire Council and Motherwell College.

They will get on-the-job experience by working at some of the area’s flagship leisure facilities including Broadwood Stadium and The Tryst in Cumbernauld.

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The apprentices will work towards achieving their Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs) which set the level of occupational competence delivered in the workplace while also being paid during their learning experience.

North Lanarkshire Council says the aim of the programme is to give young people the chance to identify which area of the sport and leisure industry appeals to them by offering a one-year employment contract as a trainee. Blane Dodds, chief executive of NL Leisure, said: “Apprenticeships are an excellent way to gain a qualification and workplace experience.

“It’s a great way to get into the sports industry, learn new skills, get support and gain the necessary qualifications to kick-on in the future.”

The apprentices will learn lifeguard training and take part in golf workshops. The training will also include emergency first aid, rugby and badminton basics, gym inductions, customer care, and health and safety.

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The apprentices will also get involved in local sporting events including the Monklands half marathon, Wishaw Games and Cumbernauld 10K

Councillor Jim Logue, chairman of NL Leisure, said: “This is a terrific opportunity for these young people. At a time when it is so difficult get employment or work experience, this programme shows our commitment to giving youngsters the chance to learn vital skills that will help them throughout their working life.”

SPORTING START: NL Leisure’s David Kyle, Blane Dodds and Councillor Jim Logue are pictured with some of the apprentices who are (l-r) Billy Robb, Liam McCreery, Craig Holmes, Ryan Craig, Michael Brunton and Ryan Hamilton.