17.02.09

EXETER College students are hoping to follow in the footsteps of Sir Alan Sugar when they parade through Exeter city centre dressed as the business tycoon during national Apprenticeships Week.

More than 70 apprentices and media and performing arts students will wear suits and carry masks of Sir Alan’s face as they march from Queen Street to Bedford Square, Princesshay, on Monday, February 23, at 11.50am.

It will be the first day of the Learning and Skills Council’s annual campaign which is being fronted by the founder of Amstrad and TV personality from the BBC’s The Apprentice.

Rob Bosworth, assistant principal for skills at Exeter College, said: “This exciting parade is an opportunity for us to do something engaging and innovative to raise awareness of the need for successful apprentices at this difficult economic time.

“We are linking in with the national TV campaign using Sir Alan Sugar to both raise the profile of apprenticeships as well as engaging with young people who are crucial to the future of the local economy.

“Apprenticeships are one of many training solutions Exeter College is offering the local community at present. It is essential in the current climate, whether upskilling or reskilling, that people have access to quality training opportunities.”

Exeter College is hosting a series of events to mark the second Apprenticeships Week.

On Tuesday, February 24, local business leaders are invited to have breakfast with celebrity chef and former Exeter College student Michael Caines at the college’s training restaurant, @34. The Apprenticeship Guide 2009-10 detailing all the apprenticeships offered at Exeter College will be officially launched at this event.

Employers in hospitality, hair and beauty can attend a networking buffet at the college on the evening of Monday, February 23.

There will also be a host of workshops on catering, hairdressing and automotive training throughout the week.