MEET the RSPCA apprentices getting hands on experience as part of National Apprenticeship Week 2018.

Mike Kelly, 19, and Blaine Cruz, 22, are three months into their 12 month training at the Warrington, Halton and St Helens branch on Slutcher's Lane, to become animal care assistants.

As part of the programme, delivered by Lite Limited, the apprentices have been given the opportunity to care for a range of vulnerable animals – including, exercising, feeding and medicating them.

Helena Brailsford, branch manager, said the process of directly recruiting the apprentices is the first of its kind for the branch.

She said the industry is 'extremely competitive' and giving the apprentices hands on experience is putting them in 'a position to look for jobs they have experience in'.

The 47-year-old, who has more than 20 years experience in the industry, will be guiding the apprentices through the process and offering expert knowledge in caring for vulnerable animals.

Mike said the first three months of training have given him the 'confidence and skills' to begin a career in the industry.

The 19-year-old, from Leigh, said: "I have always wanted to join either the army, police or RSPCA so it is really good to be working with the animals."

National Apprenticeship Week 2018 is designed to celebrate apprenticeships and the positive impact they have on individuals, businesses and the wider economy.

Running from March 5 to 9, the theme for this year is 'apprenticeships work', to showcase the success of apprenticeships while encouraging even more people to choose them as a career pathway.

Apprentice Blaine, from Manchester, works at the Warrington, Halton and St Helens centre Monday to Thursday and every Sunday as part of her training.

She said: "I have always wanted to work with animals.

"I volunteered on a farm in Australia for six months, and volunteered at shelters in Thailand.

"I definitely have a passion for animals."

For more information visit naw2018.co.uk