18/02/2010 : BHP appoint apprentice plumber

BHP has appointed plumbing apprentice, Arron Qureshi, as part of a London Apprenticeship Scheme. Arron started his new role in January 2010.

Arron is part of an initiative run by The London Apprenticeship Company(LAC), a not-for-profit Group Apprenticeship organisation. The LAC will help more than 1,000 young people into apprenticeships by 2012 in areas such as plumbing, retail, creative media, social care, business administration, hospitality, construction and leisure.

BHP is proud to be part of such a groundbreaking project which aims to give young people a stepping stone to employment and developing the skills of the future UK workforce.

The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, is fully behind this scheme and said:
"The London Apprenticeship Company is making a lasting contribution to London and UK workforce, but it cannot succeed alone. Many employers, including those here today, will tell you how taking on an apprentice is a fantastic way to bring fresh talent and energy into the team and build a basis for future growth. I salute all businesses across London that already have apprenticeship schemes in place and am encouraging many more to follow suit."

Arron will be working with BHP's repairs contractors, Linbrooks, and alongside one of their qualified plumbers. He will be carrying out routine maintenance repairs within the borough.

Arron said: "My father is a plumber and I wanted to follow in his footsteps and have a career in this field. I heard about the LAC and signed up to their website. It's been the best thing I have ever done! I am learning so much and work in a job that I enjoy. I would encourage young people who are looking for work to sign up to apprenticeships because there are so many benefits. You also have more of a chance of being employed afterwards because you have gained hands-on experience, useful skills and have a qualification as well."

BHP would like to welcome Arron to his new position and wish him well for the start of a successful career.

If you are a young person living in Brent and want to get into work, then apprenticeships are well worth considering. You will be working and learning at the same time, and getting paid for it! If you are interested in an apprenticeship, log on to the London Apprenticeship Company or call 020 7963 8548.