Clacton's Princes Theatre has taken on its first apprentice.

Teenager Oliver Goodey, who lives in Manningtree, is the new star turn and is hoping that his role will lead to a long term career.

Oliver, 17, has just started at the Tendring District Council (TDC) run theatre at Clacton Town Hall.

He attends Colchester Institute's Braintree campus one day a week while studying Technical Theatre and spends the other four days a week at the Princes where he is proving a valuable member of the team.

The former Hadleigh High School pupil is on a two year apprenticeship which has been set up and funded by the Council's Career Track programme.

"I found out about this great opportunity through the National Apprenticeship website and my aim is to become a sound and lighting technician at the Princes," he said.

"At the moment I am working hard at building up my skills set and I am really enjoying it."

Kai Aberdeen, TDC's Assistant Theatre and Entertainments Manager, said that Oliver has made a really promising start.

"He has already become a vital part of the team and has proved himself a very quick learner - we couldn't be happier with his progress to date," he said.

Career Track offers apprenticeships to local teenagers aged 16 to 19.

There are currently 45 apprentices working in 25 small businesses in Tendring as well as placements with the Council.

Lynda McWilliams, TDC's Cabinet Member for Customer and Central Services, said the Council is trying to boost apprenticeships across the District as part of National Apprenticeship Week.

"I am delighted to see that Oliver has taken to his new role at the Princes and it is important that we as a Council lead the way," she said.

"We have had a number of employers come forward recently but there is always need for more as there so many young people wanting to take up an apprenticeship."

Anyone wanting more information, or an employer who wants to take on an apprentice, should contact 01255 686306 or email ctrack@tendringdc.gov.uk

7/2/12