THIRTY youngsters from across West Dunbartonshire have been given the opportunity to learn new skills and secure their future.

And as well as the new start apprentices, another 56 trainees are waiting in the line to start their journey towards work.

West Dunbartonshire Council has welcomed the Modern Apprentices (MA) and trainees into the workplace this year, with the new recruits aged 16 to 24 learning skills such as administration, care and joinery.

Among this year’s intake is Dumbarton’s Paul Biggins, 19, who found out about the opportunity at a job fair in the town’s West Employability Hub.

Paul has now started work as a hospitality modern apprentice based at Willox Park care home in Dumbarton.

He told the Reporter: “I genuinely like cooking so this apprenticeship is an opportunity for me to see if I can shine. It’s great experience and will hopefully lead to a permanent job.” Paul and his colleagues will work towards either a Level 2 or 3 Scottish Vocational Qualification as part of their MA over the coming months and years, both of which are recognised nationally.

As well as receiving training and learning new skills, the apprentices will also earn a wage.