Our apprentices aren’t running errands, they’re running departments!
04 Feb 2020 ARCHIVED (over 3 months old) - view latest news
Northumberland County Council is blazing a trail this National Apprenticeship Week.
The council has an ongoing pledge to recruit new apprentices, with over 400 people appointed in the last three years, and 229 apprentices recruited in 2019 alone.
These include a unique new programme which has seen 14 new adult social care apprentices, who are learning about the care industry and are already making a difference in their communities.
Councillor Wayne Daley, cabinet member with responsibility for learning and skills at Northumberland County Council, said: “We are incredibly proud of apprentices, and of the services who take them on and nurture their talent.
“The succession planning that we do ensures that apprentices have the opportunity of a job at the end of their apprenticeship, so we can offer them real progression.
“We also have a number of higher level and degree apprenticeships for our staff who want to upskill and move into a management role. We’re making sure the future is bright for all of our apprentices.”
The council helps facilitate the apprenticeships so that people in Northumberland have the opportunity to work in a whole host of different sectors, from construction to childcare.
As well as direct recruitment the council also partners with local businesses like Active Northumberland and the Northumberland Community Bank.
Lauren Langton, CEO of the Northumberland Community Bank said: “We decided to take on apprentices because we wanted to grow our business, and we really like the idea of investing in people.
“We’re very ambitious and in a small organisation each member of the team plays a big part.
“I would advise any small business to get an apprentice. Our apprentices are an integral part of the team and have been from day one, and that’s why they’re making such a difference.’
This year Northumberland apprentice Julie Mills received national recognition when she won National Apprentice of the Year. A level 2 customer services apprentice at the Northumberland Community Bank, Julie beat both regional and national finalists, and is a great example of what apprenticeships are all about.
Julie said: “Before this I worked in a factory for twenty years, and then I looked after my mother. After that I struggled to get back into work, but I knew I had to do it to set a good example for my daughter. I started volunteering at the bank, and then became an apprentice. The support I received was fantastic; I didn’t realise you could do one when you’re older, but it’s changed my life. I can’t say I’ve ever enjoyed anything so much.
During National Apprenticeship Week the council has a number of apprenticeships open, including Early Years Practitioner and Business Administration. Go to North East Jobs and search Northumberland County Council to find out more.
For more information about apprenticeships in Northumberland go to https://www.northumberland.gov.uk/Education/Apprenticeships.aspx
Call us on 01670 622 104 or email apprenticeships@northumberland.gov.uk
If you’re interested in our adult social care apprenticeship, go to careforlife.org.uk