Barclays backs Advance to Work

Thursday 20 February 2014

Three young Islanders have found jobs in the finance industry thanks to the Advance to Work scheme.

Will Stead and Jamie Hillion recently undertook work experience at Barclays Wealth and Investment Management as part of the scheme. They so impressed the business that they were offered permanent positions. They join Dan Gallichan who was also hired after taking part in the scheme and was promoted last year.

Advance to Work is one of a number of employment schemes that gives young Jersey employment training and work experience in an area of their choice.   The States scheme is aimed at 16 to 19 year olds and is designed to act as a bridge between school and the workplace. It provides a combination of personal mentoring, training and work placements to improve its trainees’ chances of securing paid work.

Sarah Bartram, joint Head of Administration of GI&S Trusts at Barclays Wealth and Investment Management, works closely with the young Islanders in the scheme.

“Barclays has been working with the Advance to Work scheme for over four years. We’ve thoroughly enjoyed supporting the trainees and it’s great that through the work experience part of the scheme we’ve been able to find Will, Jamie and Dan who have all become valuable members of the Barclays team,” she said. “The scheme is a brilliant opportunity for young people to build their confidence and skills and for local employers to discover and nurture local talent. The placements also allow time for the young people to reflect on their chosen career path.”

Barclays provided work experience for six Advance to Work trainees in 2013 and the business is currently arranging three more placements for this year. 

PHOTO CAPTION Left to right: Sarah Bartram, Jamie Hillion, Will Stead and Dan Gallichan.