As part of West Ham United’s Players’ Project, Pedro Obiang and Nathan Holland helped launch the Club’s Workforce Development Programme on Wednesday.
To coincide with National Apprenticeship Week – the annual celebration of apprenticeships to highlight their impact on individuals, employers and the economy – the pair took part in a workshop with the Hammers’ latest cohort of apprentices at London Stadium.
With 33% of the Club’s workforce signed up to apprenticeship programmes and a quarter of them living in Newham and surrounding London Boroughs, West Ham United has shown its commitment to upskilling and enhancing its employees, along with offering opportunities to new apprentices.
The Players’ Project Learning Ambassador, Pedro Obiang was thrilled to attend the launch event. He said: “I enjoyed meeting everyone today. It’s important to keep on learning as the world is always changing and we have to learn new things and try to find new skills to meet that.
“The role everyone plays here is really important in supporting us on the pitch. Until you are in a team you don’t know how it works, so it is good to be here at this kind of event because then you can understand everyone’s roles.”
Holland added: “It’s fascinating to see how much work happens off the pitch to make sure it’s good for us on the pitch. The apprenticeship programme means all the staff at West Ham can keep improving their skills and driving the Club forward from behind the scenes.”
The West Ham United Skills School has guaranteed a significant long-term investment into the Club’s workforce; provides training opportunities for local community groups and individuals; and offers upskilling, learning and development opportunities for existing staff. It has further established the Club as an inspiring place to learn and work, while giving access to the expertise and professionalism of a Premier League Football Club.
Key stats
- 33% of West Ham United staff are signed up to apprenticeships (40% by the end of season)
- Range from Level 2 to level 7
- Apprentices employed in 24 departments across the club
- 40% of apprentices are female
- 31% are under 25, 46% aged 26-35, 15% are over 45
- Apprentices ages range from 17-63
- Almost a quarter reside in Newham and the surrounding boroughs
Find out more about the West Ham United Players' Project by clicking here