WITH the cost of studying at university becoming ever more prohibitive, young people in Swindon are being encouraged to consider paid apprenticeships as an alternative.

Great Western Hospital will hold an open evening on Thursday to showcase the options that an organisation such as the NHS can offer.

The event will be a chance for people of all ages, but especially school and college leavers, to find out more about the ways they can earn a salary while gaining a professional qualification at the same time.

There are already more than 100 apprentices working at GWH across a wide range of departments.

Georgie Horgan, who works in finance, said: “I studied biology, chemistry and maths at college but realised this wasn't really what I wanted to do.

“When I discovered the opportunity to study an Association of Accounting Technician course while working at GWH, I decided to switch to becoming an apprentice.

“I have worked in the finance department since January 2016, where I help support assistant management accountants in preparing the month end tasks.

“The aspect of this role that I enjoy the most is the team's atmosphere; I find it incredibly supportive and encouraging.

“I would recommend an apprenticeship to anyone, they offer valuable experience, an insight to a working environment and you can have a recognised qualification afterwards.”

As well as finance, apprentices can currently be found developing their skills in the recruitment and business administration teams.

From September, new areas will open up including some in clinical departments such as audiology and at the Academy training centre.

Business administration apprentice, Jenny Fotheringham, joined the team at GWH when she was 16 after leaving school and deciding against two years of further education.

She said: “Being only 16 and going straight into such a large and well known organisation was quite daunting, but I’m so happy I did.

“An apprenticeship has provided me with more than a qualification and something to stick on my CV.

“It’s made me more confident as a person and I have learnt so much and gained so many new skills that will be valuable to me throughout my working life.”

The benefits for young people who manage to secure an NHS apprenticeship are not just limited to a salary, they also get a free bus pass, 27 days of paid holiday, dedicated study leave and a £500 bursary when they complete the programme.

Alex Stroud, Recruitment Team Leader, said: “We understand that choosing an apprenticeship over more traditional forms of higher and further education is a big decision, which is why we’re holding this open evening.

“It’s the perfect opportunity for anyone with questions to come along and get the answers they’re looking for from the people in the know.”

The event will take place in the Academy at GWH from 4:30pm this Thursday, May 5.

For more information on NHS apprenticeships visit www.job.nhs.uk and search for Great Western Hospital.