Luke Power
Luke Power
London
Young Apprentice of the Year category
Apprenticeship Awards 2008
“Because of my Young Apprenticeship, I feel I can handle any challenge that comes my way.”
Luke Power, 16, is a shining example of how hard work and determination can overcome obstacles to achieve success.
“I have always been determined to succeed, trying anything and everything,” says Luke. “Hard work brings rewards – this was made clear to me when, as a result of my efforts on a Young Apprenticeship work placement, I was offered a permanent job with the company.”
Luke undertook his Young Apprenticeship in Sports Management, Leadership and Coaching at Eltham Green Specialist Sports College, during which he completed three work placements at Venture Health Club, the David Beckham Academy and Bean and Co. This trio of work placements allowed Luke to develop a diverse range of skills, ultimately resulting in his decision to pursue a career in sports.
“As I’ve grown older, my interest has become more focused on the world of sport, from physiotherapy to sports psychology and nutrition in sport,” said Luke. “By opting to pursue a Young Apprenticeship, I have been able to develop my understanding and knowledge in each area.”
Luke, who was diagnosed with dyslexia as a child, struggled with reading and writing throughout his youth. But thanks to embarking on an Young Apprenticeship, he gained the confidence and skills to help him overcome his difficulties and succeed both on the job and in the classroom.
“I began to use my determination and thirst for success to improve my performance, and the Young Apprenticeship Programme boosted my efforts tremendously,” said Luke. “My programme started as I commenced my GCSE studies and so it helped me tackle my exams in an independent and more confident way.”
Luke is now an ambassador for Young Apprenticeships, giving presentations to other young people on the benefits of pursuing a learn-while-you-earn scheme.
“It takes a lot of courage and self-confidence to stand in front of your peers delivering your ideas in a formal manner,” said Luke. “I feel an incredible sense of personal achievement because, as a result of the Young Apprenticeship Programme, I have been able to do this.”
Neil MacGillivray, Head of Sport, Leisure & Tourism for London Leisure college, said Luke is a cut above the other students.
“Luke overcame a lot of challenges and was a pleasure of a student. I can’t say enough good things about him,” said Neil. “I’ve been teaching for a long time, and he is just the single, most outstanding student I’ve ever come across.”
Now a permanent employee at Venture Health Club, it is clear that Luke has made a lasting impression in the workplace as well.
“The Young Apprentice Programme has proven to be invaluable in getting young people exposed to the world of work, especially in the active leisure sector,” said Gary Adams of Venture Health Club. “Had it not been for this programme, we would not have been introduced to Luke and we would have been the poorer for it.”
Luke is a finalist in the Young Apprentice of the Year category in the national Apprenticeship Awards 2008.
Last Updated: 10/03/2010