Nine apprentices at Richmond upon Thames College celebrated the end of their apprenticeship programme with a graduation.

The students worked at the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) during their 12-18 month course. They were all supported by RuTCs specialist employer engagement department, Training Solutions.

Seven graduated in Business Admin, one in IT and one in Digital Marketing. They have all been offered roles with NPL.

JT Janssen, NPL’s Director of Research, gave the opening speech at the ceremony, followed by Robin Ghurbhurun, Principal and Chief Executive of RuTC. Both spoke highly of the graduates’ hard work. Robin said: “It was a fantastic event as ever but what really struck me was how impressive our apprentices are and the experience NPL has provided them with.”

Amy Woolford, one of RuTC’s graduating apprentices whose job role involves Health, Safety, Environment and Security at NPL, said: “During my time at NPL I have been exposed to different sides of the business, which allowed me to choose a path for my career that interests me.

"Throughout my apprenticeship I earned a salary whilst learning and the bonus is that I found a career that I enjoy. It’s amazing the amount of trust NPL has in their apprentices and the support from of our college tutor was incredible. Her dedication meant we all were as successful as we could be.”

Finton McCluskey, one of RuTC’s graduating apprentices and working at NPL’s Quantum project management office, said: “Over the 14 month course, I have learned a great deal about the inner workings of the business, the principles of administration and have built up a network of like-minded colleagues.

"Richmond upon Thames College has facilitated this greatly; the one-to-one sessions as well as classes at the college itself have proven to be very useful. NPL has now taken me on full-time, extending my contract as administrative support in the Quantum project management office.”