MARKET Place, Bolton has its first apprentice from Bolton College.

Ryley Walton will work as an apprentice maintenance electrician within the shopping centre. During his apprenticeship, Ryley is working with two on-site engineers to learn his trade and develop his skills. He is being supported by managers at ICH, Market Place’s electrical services provider.

Nikki Wilson-Cook, centre manager, Market Place said: “We’re thrilled to welcome local lad Ryley to the team. We are sure he will gain a wealth of experience – there is always a new job around every corner with technical and logistical challenges that will open his eyes to the demands of the job in a real life scenario."

Ryley also has the support of Bolton College including his tutor and the Centre Management Team at Market Place, to provide comprehensive insight into the electrical demands of the shopping centre.

In addition to learning skills to complement his course curriculum, Ryley also has the opportunity to extend his skill set with additional training on areas such as legionella awareness, fire door inspections, PAT Testing, Health and Safety training and MEWP training, which will give him the ability to work from aerial platforms.

Ryley has settled on a career in the electrical industry after working with his father as a labourer and picking up basic skills, which was followed by a two week enrichment programme at Bolton College to confirm his decision.

The Government is set to promote apprenticeships heavily in 2019, so Market Place is staying ahead of the predicted trend in employing their apprentice now.

Kate Wallace, Bolton College’s Director of Apprenticeships said, “We were delighted to work alongside both Paul Gardiner from ICH and Malcolm Berry from Market Place to provide the perfect apprentice for the position. The region’s biggest and brightest companies recognise the value of apprentices – not only are they a cost-effective way to grow a workforce, they bring enthusiasm, energy and fresh ideas to a business.”

Ms Wilson-Cook, added: “We welcome his fresh ideas and new perspective, to keep our existing team on their toes!”