A teenager is urging children to plan for their futures.
Asha Clarke, 16, has successfully completed a 16-19-year-old pre-apprenticeship and week-long work experience placement to join VokerFitzpatrick as a trainee engineer.
He and other students from the company’s Anglia Rail Skills Academy built a new sandpit and water play area at a Haringey Play Association playground in Somerford Grove.
Asha Clarke said: “I did the pre-apprenticeship programme and then came on a week’s long work experience at VolkerFitzpatrick.
“I think they liked my attitude and how I performed but I was shocked when I was phoned to be told the good news.
“I couldn’t stop smiling for the whole day.
“Six months ago, I never would have dreamt I would have a full-time job in engineering.
“But this is my time to shine.”
VolkerFitzpatrick signed up to Haringey Council’s Tottenham Charter which helps people make the most of the job, health, education and training opportunities created by the regeneration of the area.
Asha’s mentor at the playground, Tam Carrigan, encouraged him to apply for the opportunity.
Tam said: “I’m so proud of him.
“He still comes in to see us every week and tells the younger kids to think about their future and he is also a constant encouragement for his peers, just by the example he has set, which is wonderful.
“The charter is a great idea and it gives big companies like VolkerFitzpatrick the opportunity to give something back to the community.”
VolkerFitzpatrick is working to improve Northumberland Park’s railway station.
Visit www.tottenham.london/people/tottenham-charter
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