WORCESTERSHIRE’S hospitals are helping 29 business and administration apprentices take their first step on the career ladder.

The apprentices will be studying towards their Business and Administration NVQ level two and three, while working full time at Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust.

Aged 16 to 24, they will be deployed in a variety of departments at the Alexandra, Kidderminster and Worcestershire Royal hospitals, gaining valuable experience of working in the NHS. Sandra Berry, head of learning and development said: “We’re delighted to welcome such a large number of apprentices to the trust. “This is the fifth year we have run the apprentice schemes, with 11 being offered permanent placements last year. We’re looking forward to working with the apprentices and helping them to develop in their working roles.”

As part of their NVQ the apprentices will be developing their administration, planning and preparation skills while getting the opportunity to improve their computer skills. They will also get the chance to learn about analysing and reporting data and effective communication within a business. The trust is working in partnership with the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Group Training Association who will provide training for their workplace qualifications.