From the http://www.ashfordherald.co.uk 27 March, 2014.

Above photo showing Tiho Klaric in the bar at Platform 5 with a window to the radio studio

A NEW apprenticeship scheme has been set up by the owners of Platform 5.

Tiho Klaric and Coral Newing's Audio Vision Training Company will be working with six local companies to train 50 young people for jobs in the music industry.

Mr Klaric said: "The year-long course will offer opportunities in radio, sound engineering, television, social media and live events.

"The apprentices will focus on one discipline and work with the companies involved for two days a week, training at Platform 5 for another two days."

The aim is to provide BTEC Level 3 diplomas and for the apprentices to find work afterwards, having also had training in employability, English, maths and IT and earned a wage from the companies involved.

Mr Klaric added: "They are not just getting qualifications – they get experience and we will aggressively try to find them jobs."

He said it also represents a good opportunity for businesses and that he would like to hear from any other companies interested in "adopting an apprentice".

He said: "It's an affordable way for a company to take on extra staff and give something back."

The idea came after the Platform 5 Academy built studios and took on some 100 students last year in association with Brooklands College.

Last year's students are due to complete their course soon but the new company marks a new beginning as it has brought accreditation in-house.

The course is primarily aimed at 16 to 18-year-olds with an interest in the music industry.