A TEENAGER has become the trust that runs the borough’s hospitals’ youngest employee after joining as an apprentice.

Seventeen-year-old Alex Whittle, from Tyldesley has joined the Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh NHS Foundation Trust’s communications and public relations department.

She will gain a diploma in creative and digital media from Salford City College while earning a salary.

Alex said: “I am very much supported where I work and I am surrounded by people who want me to be the best that I can be and help develop my skills.

“I love working and have worked from a young age, as I like to be occupied.

“I worked in a salon at 11 years old, working my way up to junior hair assistant, and was also in retail from the age of 15.

“When it came to what I wanted to do after my GCSEs I didn’t like the idea of sitting in a classroom for six hours a day, as I am very much a get up and go person.

“The traditional degree route wasn’t for me but I am hoping, with my manager’s support, to complete my degree while working here.

“I didn’t want the debt of university and lectures don’t appeal to me, as I prefer to learn how to do things myself rather than always being in a classroom environment.

“Eventually I hope to move up in the industry itself, whether that is opening up my own business or becoming a communications officer or manager some time in the future.”

Alex divulges in her passion for photography in her free time.

She said: “I sell some of my prints when I can and do freelance work.

“I have some weddings booked for next summer already.”

Lorraine Hesketh, communications and PR manager at the trust, said: “Alex joining us has been a great learning experience for the rest of the team and we are really pleased to have been given this opportunity to welcome Alex to the family.

“I would certainly encourage other managers to really consider taking on an apprentice, as in the short time Alex has been with us she has really become a valued and well-respected colleague.”

Learning and development manager Anne Forrest, who has implemented the apprenticeship programme at the trust, said: “We are really pleased that Alex is finding her apprenticeship so worthwhile.

“Undertaking an apprenticeship is a rewarding experience and can open the doors for young people to gain a foothold in the career of their choice.”

To find out about apprenticeship opportunities available at the trust visit jobs.wwl.nhs.uk.