A Harrow College student determined to pursue a career goal has achieved his "dream" start by securing an apprenticeship with a local fitness centre.
Chandler Hutchinson, 19, completed a Sports Diploma at Harrow College at the end of last term. He progressed through the levels over a 3 year period which including passing his GCSE English as well as accommodating a part-time Fitness Instructor course. Chandlers intention was clear – he'd set his sights on achieving his career goal of working as a gym coach / personal fitness trainer.
During the final year of his studies, Chandler started looking at his career options and how he could best pursue his career ambitions. He sought advice from his course tutors and the Harrow College careers team as well as doing his own research.
With support from his tutors including Shelley Mitchinson, Sports Course Leader at Harrow College, Chandler was introduced to the Willesden Sports Centre. Following a series of meetings and an interview process, local Harrow resident Chandler was offered an apprenticeship with the sports centre.
Chandler will remain as a full time employed member of staff for the 10 month programme. Whilst working and gaining valuable experience, the sports centre is also supporting Chandler with additional qualifications. They have funded a Lifeguard qualification which Chandler has passed as well as a First Aid course. Chandler is now studying toward attaining a Level 3 BTEC qualification in Leisure and Fitness whilst working at Willesden Sports Centre.
Chandlers long term ambition is to progress up the career ladder to one day becoming a Site Operations Manager which would include the management and planning of everything within a fitness centre just like Willesden Sport Centre, from the swimming pool and different classes, through to the gym and personal training schedules.
Speaking about his apprenticeship, Chandler said "My sports course at Harrow College was really enjoyable but also challenging. With the support of my teachers, who pushed me to fulfil my potential, not only did I pass my course but I also successfully secured a dream start to my career".
To learn more about Apprenticeships at Harrow College, click here