To celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, Princess Alice Hospice is highlighting the important role its apprentices play in the work of the charity.

The sixth annual apprenticeship week, from Monday, March 11, to Friday, March 15, is designed to celebrate apprenticeships and the positive impact they have on individuals and businesses.

The over-arching theme for 2013 is “apprenticeships deliver” and is about showcasing the achievements and benefits apprenticeships deliver for both apprentices and their employers and using their experiences to inform and persuade others to get involved.

The Esher hospice offers a number of full time apprenticeships in its retail division and they are part of the larger team that generates over £1m towards vital patient care and support.

Emilie Shortland, 16, from West Molesey, works in the hospices Kingston clothing store.

She said: “I am a recent school leaver and so having the support from a variety of people of different ages is something I value; staff and volunteers have different experiences and opinions and give a variety of viewpoints.

“My confidence has grown and I am willing to attempt new skills as I know I have the support and back up of experienced professionals.”

Emilie’s grandfather and a close family friend received care and support at the hospice and she is keen to give something back and be involved with raising funds so others can have the care that her loved ones received.

Others like Kellie Woods, 26, from Hersham, started as a volunteer before developing into a member of staff at the East Molesey store.

Ms Woods said: “The hospice as a great employer due to the structured training it provides, the variety of roles I get to experience and the potential career progression that exists.

“I am keen to complete my apprenticeship and seek a full time assistant manager role within the charity, and over time hopefully progress further to manager and area manager positions.”

To find out more about apprenticeships, visit apprenticeships.org.uk and for more information about Princess Alice Hospice, visit pah.org.uk.