Local MSP Jackie Baillie has praised the vital contribution of apprenticeships to the local economy in West Dunbartonshire on a visit to a Dumbarton dental practice.

Visiting Wright Dental & Beauty Care on the High Street, Jackie was given a tour of the facilities by practice owner John Wright and spoke to modern apprentice Sarah Hamilton to learn more about her experience.

Jackie said:

“It was great to meet John and the staff at Wright Dental & Beauty Care to learn more about the many benefits that taking on an apprentice can have for local businesses.  Apprentices can play a vital role in West Dunbartonshire by helping local businesses train up their own employees to address the skills shortage which affects our area and communities across Scotland.

“Working alongside local training providers, Wright Dental & Beauty Care is doing tremendous work to ensure that young people have the chance to get a flying start in their chosen career. I hope that other local businesses will follow their example.”

Sarah, who has been working as an apprentice at Wright Dental since January, said:

“Balancing on-the-job training with 16 hours a week at college is a great way to get the skills you need as a dental assistant and I would definitely recommend it to anyone. On my first day I was thrown in at the deep end and have learned so much from getting hands-on experience.”

Laura Mack, SDS Employer Engagement Adviser for West Dunbartonshire, said:

“SDS can offer support to businesses in taking on a Modern Apprentice, from identifying a role to finding a training provider and recruiting a candidate.

“The commitment that Wright Dental & Beauty Care has shown to employing young people benefits both them as a business and the community in general.

“SDS can also offer advice on many other things, ranging from graduate placements and wage incentives to workforce development and local training opportunities