Chain lets staff earn and learn (From This Is Wiltshire)

MCDONALD’S is serving up the chance to earn and learn with its apprenticeship scheme.

The restaurant chain – one of the employers involved in National Apprenticeship Week – has been giving staff a chance to get an intermediate apprenticeship in hospitality and catering since 2009.

Chris Wilson, 19, started the Great Western Way branch, part-time, in May 2011, to earn while at college.

He enrolled on the company’s apprenticeship programme to further his studies and became a full-time crew member after college.

Chris said: “I’ve always been a hard worker so, when the company I worked for fell victim to the recession, I was determined to find a new job straight away.

“When I applied for a role at McDonald’s, I was thrilled to be offered it, as the flexible hours and variety of the role was appealing.

“Soon after starting, I was offered the chance to join the apprenticeship scheme and thought it would be a great way to learn more about the business and brush up on my maths skills.

“It was challenging at times, but the flexibility of the course and the support on offer really helped.

“Being able to learn while earning and gain an extra qualification was invaluable. The scheme also helped me improve my confidence and understanding of how a successful business works.”

Almost 15,000 apprentices have gained qualifications at McDonald’s and there are more than 6,000 employees now studying towards them.

Local franchisee Paul Booth said: “The skills staff develop on the apprenticeship programme can help increase their enthusiasm, confidence and professional attitude.”

An apprenticeship-themed careers fair takes place, from 10am to 4pm today, at the Brunel Centre.