News reports located on this page = 2.

Children's author donates sales of Share Some Secrets book to NSPCC

AN award winning children's author is donating all future sales of 1 of her titles to a children's charity. Christina, an honorary NSPCC Council member, wrote a book entitled Share Some Secrets, which encourages children to think about the difference between good and troublesome secrets, and encourages them to speak out without fear. She has dedicated the book to the charity.  The NSPCC is partnering with Christina Gabbitas for World Book Day and all proceeds from the sale of the book from the 7th March will be donated to the child protection charity.

Christina said:- "World Book Day is celebrated each year by children across the UK. A celebration of books with the pleasure and education they can bring. Books are a great way for children to learn about the world around them and Share Some Secrets is a story that encourages children to share secrets and not feel so alone with their thoughts. The NSPCC is a charity that I am very proud to be a part of, and the book fits in so well with the messages they deliver through their Speak Out. Stay Safe programme in primary Schools and advice from Childline. It is very rewarding to know that something I have written is helping children to speak out. I set on this mission a few years ago and after speaking with many abused individuals, wanted to see if I could help make a positive difference.  It is far better to educate children from a young age rather than trying to pick up the pieces after. I have had calls from Australia, Norway and sent books out to Singapore. I hope that the book can help raise more awareness and funds for NSPCC Childline."

Christina visited Harewood Primary School in Leeds ahead of World Book Day and spent time with pupils discussing the messages in Share Some Secrets and exploring other titles she has written.  Emma Wraighte, Head teacher of Harewood Primary School said:- "We are delighted to be helping to promote keeping children safe through the power of reading and education. Christina's books help children access vital information at a level that is lasting. The children loved having her visit our School and share her book."

Ali Jeremy, director of communications for the NSPCC said:- "Christina deserves the highest level of recognition from the NSPCC for her dedication and unstinting enthusiasm. She is a wonderful lady who is passionate about safeguarding whilst conveying a love of reading which can open up so many new worlds for our children."

Colleges 'fire it up' for National Apprenticeship Week 2019

IN support of National Apprenticeship Week 2019, St Helens College and Knowsley Community College are celebrating the outstanding successes of current apprentices, promoting apprenticeship opportunities to young people and demonstrating how employers can 'fire up' their business with an apprentice. A whole host of exciting and informative activities took place from 4 March to 8 March, from the School Liaison Team providing Apprenticeship information sessions to young people at several Schools across the borough, to an:- 'Apprenticeship Roadshow,' sharing CV tips and guidance on how to search and apply for Apprenticeship vacancies.  Currently offering Apprenticeships in over 20 different sectors, ranging from:- engineering, life sciences and health to business, hairdressing, beauty, and computing, both Colleges have over 700 Apprentices with high profile employers; including:- Thermo Fisher Scientific, NHS, CAL International, Yorkshire Repak, NGF and Bagnalls Painting and Decorating. In addition to planned activities, several of  the amazing Apprentices that featured within a week long social media campaign, to inspire and encourage others to follow in their footsteps and choose an Apprenticeship to:- 'fire up' their future careers. 1 of the featured Apprentices, Ash studied the level 3 Diploma in Engineering Technologies and Mechanical Engineering, at St Helens College before securing an impressive apprenticeship with established organisation, CAL International. He has since progressed on to a HNC in Mechanical Engineering, fully funded by his employer.

The aspiring Aerospace Engineer said:- "The supportive tutors with their industry links, have helped me to secure my Apprenticeship with CAL International. I really enjoy my job and as part of my role, I research and develop new ideas and improve existing designs and processes across a variety of industries such as automotive, chemical, aerospace and packaging. With the experience and skills that I'm developing on my HNC and the support and expertise from my tutors at College, I believe my dream career will become a reality."

Throughout the week, St Helens College also shared a series of insightful employer blogs, case studies and inspiring stories as great examples of how businesses can benefit from employing an apprentice and also how to utilise the Apprenticeship Levy effectively.

Previous Apprentice Bethan, has since secured full time employment after completing her apprenticeship with Knowsley Community College. Bethan said:- "I loved the flexibility of an apprenticeship, as I was able to complete most of the work at home or whilst working in the office. Although at times it was challenging, especially when working towards deadlines, the support that I received from my assessor and workplace manager helped me so much."

Julia Callaghan, Marketing, Sales and Customer Relations Director said:- "We work with hundreds of employers throughout the Northwest, something which we are extremely proud of. We are also proud to be able to provide an extensive range of apprenticeship opportunities to people of all ages. We are passionate about educating and supporting businesses to harness the benefits and rewards of employing apprentices and investing in the skills which they can bring to their business.  National Apprenticeship Week is a fantastic initiative and opportunity to promote and highlight the far reaching benefits apprenticeships bring to both apprentices and employers, but most importantly, it is a great opportunity to celebrate the achievements of those apprentices that have secured their 1st opportunity in their chosen career."

For more information about becoming an Apprentice or employing an Apprentice, please visit:- StHelens.AC.UK.