A LAUNCESTON resident is making the most of local opportunities thanks to being offered an apprenticeship with Specsavers.

Jakob Benning is flying the flag for the life-changing opportunities being offered by apprenticeship schemes in Cornwall.

To mark National Apprenticeship Week, 22-year-old Jakob is urging others to join a scheme and kickstart their career, with his own experience having put him on the road to a rewarding future.

Jakob began his apprenticeship life at Specsavers Launceston, starting as an optical assistant and now aiming for his level 3 diploma.

In the past 15 months he’s been a popular figure at the locally owned and run Launceston store, and Jakob is now aiming to expand his skill set further by becoming a dispensing optician.

Commenting on his new role, he says: “The apprenticeship is giving me a solid foundation to build my understanding of optics on. I came in not knowing anything about glasses, eye health and the world of optics, but 15 months on I feel like I have a solid base of knowledge. This has been built by putting my learning into practise.

“I enjoy my job because of the people. I’m surrounded by supportive colleagues, as well as patients who all have varying needs within our store. Making our team’s and patients’ day that small margin better is the drive for me.”

Sam Thomas, optometrist director at Specsavers Launceston, added: “Apprentices bring fresh talent and enthusiasm, and Jakob is a great example of this. He’s grown quickly in confidence and skill, and his friendly, professional approach means customers always feel well looked after.

“His dedicated study time has helped him build strong knowledge that he puts into practice every day. We’re proud to invest in local people like Jakob – because when talent grows locally, the whole community benefits.”