Keoghs announce new apprenticeship scheme

With recent unemployment figures showing 18-24 year olds in the region are three times more likely than other workers to be unemployed*, Bolton-based law firm, Keoghs, and Bolton College are proud to announce a new initiative which aims to create careers for local young people.

Keoghs currently has three placements available via the apprenticeship scheme, two of which are with the firm’s Business Support Unit whilst a third is offered via Keoghs’ Pre-Litigation Credit Hire team. The programme will also allow successful applicants to continue studying one day a week at Bolton College towards an NVQ in Business Administration.

Despite the apprenticeship places only being available for a matter of weeks, Keoghs has already welcomed their first successful applicant. 19 year old Abigail Ashton embarked on her new administration role with the firm’s credit hire team on 12th October and is settling in well.

Keoghs’ Business Unit Director, Andy Smith, heads up the apprenticeship scheme for the firm and is optimistic about the impact an apprenticeship could have for those selected:

“We hope this is the beginning of a long and rewarding partnership between Bolton College and Keoghs. Whilst our credit hire team at the Macron Stadium recently celebrated reaching a 100 staff landmark, we are always looking for talented and enthusiastic individuals such as Abigail to help us grow further.”

“Keoghs is one of the largest employers in Bolton and this tailored apprenticeship programme will provide career pathways into the organisation for a range of potential employees who may not otherwise have had such an option.”

Bolton College Business Development Manager, Jon Lomas, is also responsible for the programme and has been impressed with the early response to the scheme:

“An apprenticeship with Keoghs is a fantastic opportunity. The aim is for apprentices to gain industry experience whilst achieving a nationally recognised apprenticeship. With the right attitude and approach, many will have the opportunity to become permanent employees with the firm which, when combined with the qualifications they’ll achieve, will help create the foundations of a successful career.”

*Bolton News, August 12 2015