Cumberland Council and Westmorland and Furness Council have today (1 March) begun searching for more than 60 apprentices, offering a fantastic opportunity to start a new career in local government.
Apprenticeship opportunities are now available in a variety of different roles such as Civil Engineering, Highways Maintenance, Adult Support Care, Customer Service, Business Admin, Project Management and more, with opportunities from Level 2 to Level 4.
The application window is now open and closes at midnight on Sunday 24 March 2024, with applications to be submitted online at cumbriaapprenticeships.org.uk.
Many successful applicants go on to secure permanent roles and the opportunity to make a long-term career within local government.
Former civil engineering apprentice, Jack Gosling, is one of those who has secured a full-time role with Westmorland and Furness Council.
He said: “I decided to choose an apprenticeship purely for the fact I could earn whilst I learned.
“Having an income whilst learning motivated me more to excel in my work which brings the best out of me. By doing so, it’s benefitted me greatly as I have now secured a full-time roll within the Network Management Team as a technician.
“I would fully recommend taking an apprenticeship with the council due to the way you are treated, respected and feel you are really part of a team. Whenever I was in a position where I was unsure or less confident, there was always someone to help.”
Similarly, Francis Armstrong began her career as a support worker and is now undertaking a BA Social Work Apprenticeship with Cumberland Council.
She said: “The benefits of apprenticeships are massive, personally and professionally. Through the support and encouragement of colleagues, you develop new skills and knowledge every day.”
The award-winning Apprenticeship Team will be on hand to answer questions from anyone interested in starting an apprenticeship, or parents and carers. Contact the Apprenticeship Team on 01228 221400 or email apprentice@cumbria.gov.uk.
They are also running a number of drop-in events across the county for anyone considering a local government apprenticeship. There’s no need to book, just drop in for some help and advice on starting a new career. Visit cumbriaapprenticeships.org.uk to see the full event schedule.
Both councils are backing Cumbria LEP’s new ‘Cumbria Careers Day’, which will be held as part of National Careers Week (4-9 March). The event on Wednesday 6 March is designed to promote the excellent careers that are available across the county and to encourage people to develop and build their careers here.
Councillor Sue Sanderson, Westmorland and Furness Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education and Skills, said:
“Apprenticeships offer a fantastic opportunity for people to earn while they learn and many of our apprentices go on to secure permanent employment and further training.
“Part of our council mission is to ensure young people and adults are equipped with relevant tools and skills to pursue the life they want to live and have access to a rich and varied choice of local employment opportunities.
“We have a vast range of opportunities available. Whether you’re leaving school and looking to start a new career or already in employment and looking to gain a higher level qualification – we have something to suit everyone.”
Councillor Elaine Lynch, Cumberland Council’s Executive Member for Lifelong Learning and Development, said:
"We are delighted to launch this new apprenticeship recruitment drive, presenting more than 60 opportunities countywide across a variety of roles within local government. From Civil Engineering to Customer Service, we offer apprenticeships ranging from Level 2 to Level 4, providing a platform for personal and professional growth.
“We invite aspiring individuals to seize this opportunity to kickstart a fulfilling career with us. Join our dynamic team, where apprentices are valued members integral to the progress of our communities. Apply now and embark on a journey of learning, growth, and contribution to the vibrant landscape of Cumberland."
For more information, visit cumbriaapprenticeships.org.uk or follow @cumbriacouncilapprenticeships on Instagram and the two authorities on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X.