The benefits of the apprenticeship programme were emphasised last week as East Surrey MP Sam Gyimah toured local businesses to promote National Apprenticeship Week.

As part of his tour he went behind the scenes at iconic Caterham Cars, where he spent time with teenager Luke Turner of Alcock Close, Wallington. Luke, 17, is pursuing his passion for cars and has been an apprentice mechanic at Caterham Cars for over a year.

Caterham Cars run an apprentice scheme which pays the apprentice, gives them practical experience and allows them to continue studying. Luke combines his role in the workshop servicing and maintaining used cars with studying a motor mechanics course at East Surrey College, Redhill. He feels this offers him personal growth.

Luke said: "It's good to be a part of something like this. I can see definite progress in my skills."

Andy Noble, Sales and Marketing Director at Caterham Cars, believes the combination of theory and practice will boost a candidate's future employability. He feels that the scheme benefits both employer and apprentice, saying: "Caterham Cars will continue to take on apprentices in the future".

Referring to the lack of apprenticeships available to him as a trainee at Leyland, Andy said: "I wish we had these when I was younger!"

Mr. Gyimah was also pleased with the advantages offered by apprenticeships. He said: "East Surrey businesses are demonstrating their serious commitment to provide opportunities to the next generation."