College apprentices give children’s charity a helping hand

Apprentices at Derby College Group have been helping to spruce up the new base of children’s charity Over The Wall Camp.

During this month’s National Apprenticeship Week, a team of 40 apprentices descended on the charity’s new headquarters at the former Ockbrook School, where preparations are well underway to make the site “camp ready” ahead of its summer opening.

Over The Wall Camp provides free residential camps for children and young people with serious illnesses, offering fun, friendship and confidence-building experiences in a safe and supportive environment.

The refurbishment work being undertaken by Derby College apprentices will directly support the charity’s ability to welcome volunteers and, ultimately, the children who attend the camps.

Apprentices, employed by a range of regional businesses, have been working on refurbishing a former boarding house, transforming it into warm, welcoming accommodation for camp volunteers.

The hands-on project not only supports a life-changing cause but also gives apprentices invaluable real-world experience in a live working environment.

Fiona Skinner, employer partnership manager at Derby College Group, who coordinated the partnership, said: “We are incredibly proud to see our apprentices applying their skills to a project that will have such a positive and lasting impact.

“Partnerships like this are what apprenticeships are all about, bringing together education, employers and community organisations to create meaningful opportunities.

“Our apprentices are gaining valuable experience on a live site, while directly contributing to a space that will support children facing serious health challenges.

“It’s a fantastic example of what can be achieved when we work together.”

Allan Jolly, director of business development at Over The Wall Camp, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Derby College Group and to welcome their apprentices to our new headquarters here in Ockbrook.

“Their professionalism and enthusiasm are helping us create a warm, welcoming space for the volunteers who make our camps possible.

“Our vision for the site goes beyond delivering residential camps.

“We want this to be a real community asset, a place where local organisations, volunteers and residents can come together, get involved and benefit from the facilities and opportunities the site will offer.

“Partnerships like this demonstrate the power of collaboration in creating something that will positively impact both the children we serve and the wider community for years to come.

“We are so grateful for the commitment and community spirit shown by everyone involved.”