Uxbridge College apprentices have benefited from an ancient bequest made in 1793 and given a new lease of life.

The grants have been awarded by Iver United Charities to three apprentices who live in the village. The grants are from income generated by a bequest of £100 made in the Eighteenth Century by a local vicar to support apprentices in Iver, South Bucks.

The recipients will use the grants for items such as books and tools which will support their developing skills.

Sir Richard Buckley, one of the trustees, presented the grant cheques – each for £100 to reflect the original bequest – to electro-technical installation apprentice Sam Smith, and two business administration apprentices, Maria Amores and Sandi Bradley.

Sam is studying for an Advanced Apprenticeship which is equivalent to A levels, and Maria and Sandi for Higher Apprenticeships which are awarded at undergraduate level and can lead on to degree courses.

Sir Richard said: “We think it is very worthwhile – the government and industry see this as the way forward, and as trustees we agree. We want to see how we can help modern apprentices and hope the grants will lead them on to success.”

Jo Withers, Director – Employment and Skills at Uxbridge College, said: “Uxbridge College is very grateful to Iver United Charities for supporting our apprentices in this way.

“While in some ways apprenticeships have changed enormously since 1793 – you only have to look at the age range of apprentices now and the considerable choice of professional areas they train in – they are still a superb way to learn a trade while earning an income.”

Mrs Amores said: “I am really enjoying my apprenticeships and as a mature student I would say it is never too late to learn.”

Mr Smith works at Be Green renewable energies, and Mrs Bradley and Mrs Amores are both members of staff at Uxbridge College, which encourages staff and students alike to make the most of training and educational opportunities.