More than 30 apprenticeship vacancies are available at Durham County Council for young people wanting to kick-start their career.
The new apprenticeships allow people to earn as they learn across a wide range of occupations, with roles available from entry-level to degree-level apprenticeships.
The following opportunities are due to start in September:
- Waste resource operative (Level 2)
- Horticulture (Level 2)
- Business administration (Level 3)
- HR support (Level 3)
- Financial management (Level 3)
- Degree apprenticeships (Level 6) in civil engineering and quantity surveying
Those wanting to apply to an apprenticeship must do so by Sunday, July 19.
Twenty-year-old Josh Thorns had worked in various temporary roles, including casual work in leisure centres and teaching English to young people from other countries, before securing his current financial management apprenticeship with the council.
Josh started his three-year apprenticeship in September 2019, based at Durham’s County Hall, and is studying AAT qualifications with New College Durham.
Usually, Josh can walk or cycle to work and his day release placement at college but due to the coronavirus pandemic is working from home.
He said: "I decided that rather than go to university an apprenticeship would suit my career goals best. I was impressed with the council's apprenticeship programme and the range of apprenticeships available, so I applied for several posts and was pleased to be appointed as a financial management apprentice.
"This has been a great way to start my career in accountancy and I’m really enjoying meeting new people, developing my skills and receiving a regular wage."
Cllr Andrea Patterson, the council’s Cabinet member for corporate services and rural issues, said: "Apprenticeships can provide the perfect balance between practical experience and education, allowing people to earn whilst they work towards a recognised qualification at the same time.
"The impact of coronavirus means that the recruitment process for apprenticeship posts will be a little different this year, with interviews, enrolment, and induction carried out on-line, but all applicants will be supported throughout the whole process.
"The health and safety of the public and all our employees is a priority. We have risk assessments and measures in place to ensure our existing staff and new recruits can all work safely, and I’m pleased that we’re still able to offer people this fantastic opportunity for people to start or develop their careers."
The council is welcoming applicants of all ages and backgrounds to apply for the posts, which are advertised at www.northeastjobs.org.uk
To find out more about apprenticeship opportunities at Durham County Council, visit www.durham.gov.uk/apprenticeships
