Esther McVey: I’m thrilled by the success of my apprentice Clare

Feb 15 2012

I WAS absolutely thrilled when my Constituency Office Business Administration Apprentice, Clare, was nominated and won the prestigious ‘Star Award for Business’ last week during National Apprentice Week.

Clare, a former Wirral Grammar School girl, became Westminster’s first apprentice in October 2010.

After several debates in Westminster and over three months of wrangling with Parliament’s administrative department I managed to get the Parliamentary authorities to change the rules to allow MPs to take on apprentices.

Each MP is like a mini-business, employing people and running an office, so is capable of employing an apprentice. I have always said it’s important words are put into actions and that MPs should lead by example rather than just saying what other businesses should do.

I have laid the foundations for other MPs to follow, and follow they have, and a designated apprentice scheme was set up in Parliament in 2011.

As the first MP to take on an apprentice I'm absolutely delighted Clare is doing so well and has won this award.

I did impress upon Clare at the time that she was spearheading the way for others to follow and she took that on board and has not only done herself proud, but me and the team too.

Clare quickly demonstrated her competency at carrying out a wide range of administrative duties and is now doing her NVQ3.

She has demonstrated that apprenticeships are a true alternative to university, by learning new skills, gaining nationally recognised qualifications, whilst earning a real wage.