Flagship Group’s first ever higher level apprentices undertaking its pioneering ‘Bright Futures Programme’ are well on their way to gaining a degree and a career in housing. During National Apprenticeships Week (5-9 March), Flagship are celebrating the new qualification and the value of apprentices within the business. The innovative degree sponsored management training programme, which is a first for the housing sector, brings together the best of higher and vocational education. Matt Levesley, 18, and Ellie Colk, 19, both from Norwich, started their Housing Policy and Practice Apprenticeship last summer and will complete the course in 2020. At that time, both will have gained a degree and have permanent employment with Flagship. Matt said: “When I saw the apprenticeship advertised I thought housing would be really interesting as it’s so topical, especially at the moment. “The course is fantastic as you get to work across a broad range of departments such as HR, Development, Response and Housing so you quickly learn about all aspects of the business and meet lots of different colleagues. “Flagship is a really welcoming organisation and there are so many exciting things to get involved in.” Ellie said: “This particular apprenticeship really appealed to me as it looked different to many of the others which focus a lot on admin. Already we’ve been involved in lots of projects. I like the variety as you’re always doing something different so no two days are the same. “It’s a great opportunity to learn valuable skills such as social and IT skills which you can apply anywhere.” The Programme brings together the next generation of housing employees with leaders and mentors from the industry. From September 2018, two new positions will be available on the Bright Futures Programme. The apprentices will split their time between the workplace and university study. Most of the university study will be online with some attendance at Salford University, dependent on the needs of the apprentice and Flagship. Lisa Collen, Director of People at Flagship, said: “We’re passionate about growing our own talent which is why we value our Apprenticeship Programme so much. With over 20 years of experience in the housing sector, our skilled staff are keen to pass on their knowledge to the next generation, hoping to make a difference in the housing industry. “Ellie and Matt have been fantastic, really embracing our new course. It’s proven to be an excellent way for our apprentices to gain professional training and hands-on practical experience at the same time. This not only allows them to develop a good understanding of our business, but also means they make valuable contributions to our teams.” Since launching its Apprenticeship Programme in 2014, Flagship Group has had 13 young people complete their qualifications, and currently 27 apprentices are working towards qualification completion. For more information about all of Flagship’s apprenticeship opportunities please contact the Learning and Development Team on L&[email protected] A film of Matt and Ellie talking about their Bright Future apprenticeship can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/85MZkERSUIc