Arts and the Great Outdoors Apprentices

Creative Arts Apprentices

Channi, a Camden care leaver, joined Camden Council in July 2009, working in Culture and Environment as an Inside Track Creative Arts Apprentice. Initially dividing his time between the Arts Information administration team and the Camden Centre, Channi gradually become more involved with the events management and organisation side of the Camden Centre – core aspects of his Level 3 NVQ. Initially, Channi was apprehensive about returning to college and studies. After speaking honestly about his concerns with his tutors and line manager, Channi is now on track to successfully complete his qualification by this summer.

Channi has become a central member of the Camden Centre team and his manager has involved him in organising, delivering and performing at numerous events. These have included: the Venetian Ball; the Golden Ticket Initiative events; Public Weddings and Conferences. This variety enables Channi to gain diverse and valuable experience. The skills he is acquiring in his apprenticeship have already helped him pursue his passion for music outside of work. Time management, note taking, and planning have enabled Channi to organise important meetings and studio recording sessions.

Channi has shown determination and resilience in dealing with numerous challenges during his apprenticeship; from accommodation issues to his concerns around studying. In all situations, he has acted in a pragmatic and mature manner – working with his line manager and tutors to ensure a successful outcome.

After Channi completes his apprenticeship he hopes to continue working with Camden at the Camden Centre and carry on building his skills and knowledge in events management.

Channi’s Feedback:

 Being an apprentice at the Camden centre has been a great experience. Everyone has been so supportive and I couldn’t ask for a better line manager. I have learnt so much about what it takes to plan and run any event

and the energy needed to run an event. I never really thought I could do admin and event management before I came to Camden and my biggest concern was doing the college work but I made it over that bridge now and really am focused on completing this apprenticeship. So for any one who is thinking about doing an apprenticeship in creative arts I strongly recommend it because it’s a good investment in your own life.