Dozens of young people have been given their first step on the career ladder after starting apprenticeships with the north east’s largest council.
Durham County Council received over 1,000 applications for more than 70 apprenticeship opportunities, which vary from Intermediate (Level 2), Advanced (Level 3) and Higher (Level 4) to Degree (Level 6).
The apprentices, who range in age from 16 to 37, will be working across most council departments in roles ranging from business administration to bricklaying; civil engineering to financial management; and horticulture to highways.
The council’s chief executive Terry Collins welcomed the apprentices at a two-day induction. As well as meeting managers from across the authority and trade union representatives, they learned more about the organisation and how it works.
Cllr Andrea Patterson, Cabinet member for Corporate Services and Rural Issues, including human resources, said: “An apprenticeship is a great way to begin a career. I’m delighted that we are giving these young people the opportunity to earn a wage and gain valuable skills, working with experienced staff who can share their knowledge and help them to develop.
“Recruiting apprentices not only benefits us as an organisation but also the county as a whole as we’re investing in our own young people.”
To find out more about apprenticeship opportunities at Durham County Council, visit www.durham.gov.uk/apprenticeships