Garden helps young people's CVs blossom

The ceremony, organised by The Alnwick Garden Trust, was staged on Monday to celebrate those who participated in this year’s Enterprise Programme.

The scheme was devised and launched by the Duchess in 2015 to provide opportunities for young people to gain first-hand experience of working life and to explore different disciplines.

During their placement, students gained a better understanding of employment, built relationships with colleagues and developed themselves as a professional.

The Duchess said: “These days many employers insist on practical experience when recruiting, sometimes over academic qualifications.

“It is therefore really important that young people are afforded the opportunity to gain this experience and that is what the Enterprise Programme is all about.

“It is so encouraging to see so many enthusiastic young people receiving certificates. The future looks bright.”

One particular success story of the scheme is Jake Lawson, from Alnwick. Having completed the programme, Jake has since been employed as an engineering apprentice at The Garden.

Another participant to benefit from the initiative is Sam Hutchinson, who attends Nunnykirk Centre for Dyslexia.

He approached The Garden for a work placement but without any real idea of what it was he wanted to do. Despite his additional needs, he has gone on to impress the entire team and has subsequently thanked The Garden for its support.

To find out more about the programme, contact Toni Dunn on toni.dunn@alnwick garden.com or 01665 511377.