An opportunity for young people to kick-start a career in the leisure industry has been made possible with the launch of a new apprenticeship scheme by Lincs Inspire Limited and the GMB Union.

Leisure and cultural trust Lincs Inspire, whose operations include the management of five leisure and sports facilities in the North East Lincolnshire area, has joined forces with the GMB to employ six new apprentices to work across a range of services within the industry.

In a Learning Agreement, signed by Lincs Inspire’s Chief Executive Sue Wells, and Colin Todd, GMB Organiser for Midlands and East Coast Region, the companies have committed to working in partnership for the benefit of developing business, supporting local jobs and the economy.

Sue Wells, Lincs Inspire Chief Executive, said:

These new positions will help young people establish a career in the leisure industry across a broad range of services including gym and fitness, swimming and operational services. 

As well as gaining practical experience in our centres, these apprentices will have the opportunity to develop their supervisory skills and, it is hoped that following their apprenticeship, will go on to secure permanent employment within the organisation. 

For us this is very much about supporting the local economy and encouraging apprentices to develop their skills and progress through our company long-term."

Colin Todd, GMB Organiser for Midlands and East Coast Region, said:

I am delighted that Lincs Inspire has entered into this agreement with the GMB Union. It shows that employers and unions can work together for the mutual benefit of the employees, company, and the wider community. 

GMB is a progressive modern union that will work to support young people in their first steps into the world of employment and help develop their skills in partnership with employers. And whilst this initiative is aimed mainly at apprentices, we will also look to develop the skills of existing employees through the union Learning Reps."

Contracts will involve 30 hours per week over a 12 month period and all apprentices  will work closely with the GMB’s Project Worker for Young Workers' Engagement, Elliot Dean, who will help to provide appropriate training.

Tracey Thompson, the local GMB Learning Representative, who is a Lincs Inspire employee, will also be on-hand to  both support those employed and encourage development across the company.