TWO tenacious technicians are proving that experimenting with modern apprenticeship schemes can create successful careers.

Lewis McGachy and Colin Lapsley each completed a two-year life sciences apprenticeship with Inverclyde Council and are now employed as full-time technicians at Notre Dame High.

The local authority is currently recruiting for 20 modern apprentice positions to fill a variety of roles, with the deadline tomorrow.

Two life sciences apprenticeships are being offered - and Lewis and Colin say the successful candidates will get a great opportunity.

Lewis, 24, was a pupil at Notre Dame and started his two-year apprenticeship in April 2018.

He said: "I was working part-time and wanted to get into something new, to do something to keep myself busy and open up my horizons.

"I'm so glad I applied to the apprenticeship programme.

"The experience and skills you gain from the workplace along with working towards a qualification - all while getting paid - are invaluable and it stands you in good stead for your career.

"I love working at the school.

"Every day is different and you get to do a bit of everything."

Colin, 23, was a pupil at Inverclyde Academy before he started his two-year apprenticeship in January 2019.

He said: "I studied chemistry for two years at university but decided I wanted to get back into lab work.

"Being a technician is a really important role and you get the chance to take on a range of different tasks.

"It requires a lot of attention to detail and you have to work independently and use your own initiative.

"I gained so many new skills and learned so much during my apprenticeship, which meant I was able to hit the ground running when I got the permanent job.

"I would encourage anyone out there who is thinking of applying to definitely go for it."

Christopher Higgins, senior technician at the school, says that at the life sciences modern apprentice interview, students have to show that they're aware of how local government works and how education fits into the council's corporate plan.

Technicians help with preparing chemicals, making up solutions, and designing experiments to be used by pupils, and they also help to develop courses.

Inverclyde Council's modern apprenticeship recruitment covers a range of roles including business administration, childcare, vehicle mechanics and electrician and joiner roles are on offer too.

Councillor Michael McCormick, the council's environment and regeneration convener, said he's thrilled that 20 roles are available.

He said: "We know how difficult it has been for young people to find employment so it's important that we create as many modern apprentice positions as possible.

"Lewis and Colin prove that the modern apprentice scheme can be a pathway to employment and a wonderful career.

"These young men have had a very positive experience. They're a credit to the apprenticeship scheme and to their parents."

To find out more visit www.myjobscotland.gov.uk/councils/inverclyde-council/jobs

APPLIANCE OF SCIENCE Technicians Colin Lapsley and Lewis McGachy, Councillor Michael McCormick and senior technician Christopher Higgins.