It’s National Apprenticeship Week- find out more about working & learning at Stroud District Council
Published: Wednesday, 29 January, 2020
Stroud District Council’s apprentices are marking National Apprenticeship Week (3-9 February) by hosting an open evening for anyone interested in applying for an apprenticeship, their teachers and parents.
There will be the opportunity to speak to some of our current apprentices, their managers and apprenticeship tutors from South Gloucestershire and Stroud College.
“One of the most common misconceptions about apprentices is that they are just employed to make the tea, but that couldn’t be further from the truth,” said Louise Hammond, Stroud District Council’s resourcing advisor. “Our apprentices are treated as full members of their teams, and make a valuable contribution in the workplace.”
Apprentice Lucy Williams is studying for an NVQ Level 2 in Business Administration. She said:
“I couldn’t recommend an apprenticeship more, it’s the best decision I’ve made. I love that I’m learning in a professional work environment and getting paid for it too.”
Katie Bailey, an apprentice in the Environmental Health service agreed:
"I thought my only option when I left school was college or `A’ levels but an apprenticeship suited me much better as I am learning on the job and getting amazing experience. I would defiantly recommend anyone who is leaving secondary school to have a look into the apprenticeship route as there are so many good opportunities to progress from them."
Stroud District Council employs 10 apprentices with an additional four members of staff who are completing apprenticeships. New apprentice opportunities arise throughout the year, and a new position will be advertised in the planning service later this month.
One of the council’s five key priorities in its Corporate Delivery Plan is `Economy: Helping to create a sustainable and vibrant economy that works for all’, and the plan includes working with business, education and the voluntary sector to build skills and employment opportunities.
SDC’s Chief Executive, Kathy O’Leary said:
“We greatly value the contribution apprentices make across the council. It’s a great way to earn a qualification while getting experience of the world of work and I’m delighted that many of our apprentices go on to secure full-time positions here.”
The apprentice open evening will be held on Wednesday, 5 February from 5pm-7pm at the council offices at Ebley Mill in Stroud. There is plenty of car parking and secure bike storage.