We continue to work with Sandwell schools to build and support their music offer. It is our goal
to encourage every school in Sandwell to work with us, so that there is an equity of opportunity
for children to learn a musical instrument during their time at school.

We’ve announced a series of appointments to our growing team, including the recruitment of four apprentices in its IT and finance departments, and 16 new music teachers in SIPS’ Music and Arts service.

Danielle Whitehouse and Jack Stevens have joined SIPS as Apprentice Accounts Officers completing a level 2 Accounts/Finance Assistant apprenticeship; Sam Whitcombe and Evone Harris have become IT Apprentices and Service Desk Analysts, completing a level 3 Information Communication Technician apprenticeship.

Sam Whitcombe commented: “I have had a really good first week at SIPS; it has a great working environment with all of the staff members that are friendly and very helpful when I get stuck. I would like to learn as much as I can at SIPS as I am working towards my level 3 IT apprenticeship, put my knowledge into practice and keep improving myself and the knowledge I have.”

In addition, a number of other SIPS colleagues are completing a range of studies via the apprenticeship route as part of their career development:

  • Catering – Hospitality Manager level 4 apprenticeships and Food Production and Cooking level 2 apprenticeship
  • HR and Learning – HR Support level 3 apprenticeships and Career Development Professional level 6 apprenticeship
  • Finance – Professional Accounting or Taxation Technician level 4 apprenticeship
  • Safety Management Services – Business Administration level 3 apprenticeship

 Chief executive, Brian Cape, commented: “These apprenticeships, music teacher appointments and training initiatives demonstrate our continued commitment to the region’s schools and local jobs – supporting the economy and the ongoing advancement of our staff. I’m also very proud that 35% of music teachers were former music students in Sandwell Schools”  

Picture shows (left to right): Sam Whitcombe, Danielle Whitehouse, Evone Harris and Jack Stevens

 

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