One of Ipswich’s largest employers will be showcasing their support for young people during an apprenticeship open evening,

Sanctuary Personnel will open their doors to young people, aged 16-24 on Wednesday August 31, (6pm-8pm) to raise awareness of the wide range of jobs that are available at the company through the national apprenticeship scheme.

As well as providing detailed information about how apprenticeships combine practical work experience with a nationally recognised qualification, guests will also be able to receive one-to-one careers advice from Sanctuary’s expert recruitment team, with representatives from each department on hand.

More than 60 apprentices are currently employed at the company, making Sanctuary the region’s largest apprenticeship employer. The firm is currently offering apprenticeship roles in departments including marketing, finance, IT, sales, HR and compliance.

Apprenticeships have become a popular alternative for those looking to start a career without the need to remain in traditional academic study. The UK government states that there are higher numbers of apprentices than ever before – during the 2014-15 academic year, 871,800 apprentices participated in the scheme.

The combination of practical work experience and academic learning has proven to be extremely beneficial for long-term career prospects; after completion, 90% will stay in employment with seven in 10 remaining with the same employer whilst almost a quarter of former apprentices had reported receiving a promotion at work within 12 months.

For those looking to attend the apprenticeship open evening Sanctuary Personnel’s offices can be found on Friars Street in the town centre, opposite the famous black Willis Building. Sanctuary’s staff will be on hand to direct visitors into the offices.

Visit www.sanctuaryapprenticeships.com