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Notts County Council doubles apprentice pledge

The authority had pledged to take on 25 apprentices in support of the Get Notts Working drive.

Now, they have upped that to 50 - just a day after the Post revealed it had hit its target of 200 apprentice opportunities.

Recruitment has now started at the council for the placements which are in a wide range of roles.

They include labourers, grounds maintenance, mechanics, administrators, librarians and youth workers.

The apprenticeships are generally open to 16 to 18-year-olds and are based at venues throughout the county, including country parks, libraries, depots and offices.

Councillor Andy Stewart, chairman of the personnel committee at the authority, said: "The county council is committed to reducing youth unemployment and training up the local workforce.

"As one of the county's largest employers, we should set an example to others by investing in apprenticeship schemes and our young people.

"Covering such a broad range of services and disciplines in locations throughout Nottinghamshire means we can offer an exciting mix of opportunities for apprenticeships."

Mr Stewart added: "Apprenticeships are a viable alternative to full-time education, giving young people a chance to earn while they learn and gain hands-on work experience which will boost their chances when looking for employment further down the line."

The placements offer a minimum of 12 months' paid work and include help to gain a NVQ Level 2 qualification at the same time.

Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Futures is recruiting young people to the apprenticeship positions on behalf of the council.

The Get Notts Working campaign aims to support local people in their efforts to find a job.

It is a partnership between the Post, Notts and Derbyshire Chamber of Commerce, the National Apprenticeship Service, Nottinghamshire City and County Employment and Skills Board and local councils.

Later this year the campaign will switch its focus to work experience.

George Cowcher, chief executive of the Chamber of Commerce, said: "It is great to see that Nottinghamshire County Council is leading by example.

"Apprenticeships are an essential element of creating the workforce needed to sustain the future economy here in Nottinghamshire and employers of all sizes and from all sectors have a part to play in developing such a highly-skilled labour pool.

"Apprentices aren't just good for business, they can be an asset to any organisation.

"The chamber, alongside our partners at the council, would urge local companies who want to increase the size of their workforce to give serious thought to the benefits that an apprentice would bring to their business."

Source:www.thisisnottingham.co.uk|

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