Nineteen year-old Holly Webdale became the record-holder when she joined La Mac hair salon in Swavesey as an apprentice, fulfilling her dream of becoming a hairdresser.
Laraine Moody, CRC assistant principal for employment engagement, said she was delighted that the college had reached such a landmark figure.
“Apprenticeships are a fantastic opportunity for employers and apprentices – they are the gold standard of workplace training, and we are absolutely delighted to have reached a record 3,000 apprentices in training,” she said.
“More and more businesses are seeing apprenticeships as a valuable training aid, in all sorts of sectors, and we work closely with employers to help them find the right people.”
Holly, who was a full-time student at CRC before starting her apprenticeship, said she had always wanted to work as a hairdresser.
“I like the salon – there is a different client base every day, I’m learning lots and I have good training and support,” she said.
“I also like coming to college to meet other apprentices, make new friends and learn other skills. I am already learning so much at work and at college. I would definitely recommend an apprenticeship to other people.”
Laraine said apprenticeships at the college were continuing to grow after a successful campaign last year.
“We ran a hugely success campaign with the Cambridge News last year for 100 apprentices in 100 days, which encouraged a lot of businesses to come forward and offer apprenticeship opportunities, and the figures have been increasing ever since,” she said.
“Employers are becoming more aware of the benefits of apprenticeships, and the advantages of staff being trained on the job, while gaining very valuable qualifications.”
Holly’s employer, Carol Griffin, who owns La Mac, said she was an excellent addition to the salon, and was very good with the clients.
“It is a busy salon and Holly is learning quickly and is really good with the clients,” she said.
Image: 3000th apprentice Holly Webdale receives a box of hair and beauty gifts from CRC’s Laraine Moody, watched by La Mac owner Carol Griffin.
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For more information, please contact Lynn O’Shea, Communications & PR Manager, on 01223 418773 or email loshea@camre.ac.uk
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