Toy story – a first for York apprentice

A shop which sells a timeless child's toy is providing hope for a new generation of Britain's apprentices.

The Rocking Horse Shop in Fangfoss, York has become the first workplace in England to take on an apprentice through a Government scheme.

The shop's newest employee, 16 year-old Paige Walker, is participating in a scheme that will see an extra 5,000 16 and 17-year-olds become apprentices by the end of March 2010.

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The scheme offers businesses a 2,500 bonus for each 16 or 17-year-old they employ as an apprentice.

Ms Walker will embark on an apprenticeship in business administration which will be delivered in partnership with York Training Centre. She said: "I am so excited about this. School just wasn't for me so I'm really grateful for the opportunity to do an apprenticeship at the Rocking Horse Shop. It will enable me to undertake nationally recognised qualifications, learn on the job – and earn."

The Rocking Horse Shop has been designing, making and restoring rocking horses for 30 years.

Owner Jane Cook says: "Once I found out about the scheme, it was very easy to set up and I am delighted. This has given me the opportunity to offer a young person a job with the added bonus of gaining a qualification."

For further information advice and support on Apprenticeships, log on to www.apprenticeships.org.uk or phone 08000 150 600.

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