

We are celebrating National Apprenticeship Week by recognising our amazing apprentices (past and present) and the managers and employees who support them.
10 years of apprenticeships
We are extremely proud to have been running apprenticeships for 10 years. During this time we’ve had over 50 young people (16-18 year olds) from the district successfully complete apprenticeship programmes.
A high number of these younger people have now achieved higher level and degree apprenticeship qualifications (in areas such as Management, Customer Service, Marketing, PR, HR, business administration and IRRV) and have secured career opportunities in a wide range of service areas. Some of our former apprentices are now working for Qualis, with one of our construction apprentices, who joined at 17, promoted to Operations Manager.
Developing key skills
Amy Buckley, who is now working in Internal Communications, studying Marketing said:
Being an apprentice straight from school taught me the way of work! It has helped build my communication skills and my confidence.
The week brings together businesses and apprentices across the country to shine a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships make to individuals, businesses and the wider economy.
Julie Dixon, Learning and Talent Business Partner said:
As I look around the organisation and see people who have developed through apprenticeships now flourishing in their careers I can’t help think what an amazing legacy we have built together (and will continue) for our organisation and the community.
Skills for life
The theme for National Apprenticeship Week 2023 is ‘Skills for Life’. The week will reflect on how apprenticeships can help individuals to develop the skills and knowledge required for a rewarding career and help businesses to develop a talented workforce that is equipped with skills for the future.
We encourage everyone to consider how apprenticeships can help individuals to develop multiple skills.
Our apprentices are an integral part of our organisation, we have seen a number of apprentices achieve amazing qualifications across numerous departments.
Charlotte Wright, Housing and Community Strategy Officer said:
My apprenticeship has enabled me to study alongside working in an office environment, it has given me the confidence to voice my ideas in meetings and collaborate with others to bring ideas to life.
Melis Corakkum, Revenues Customer Service Officer said:
Working in revenues during my apprenticeship has given me the ability to use my initiative more with things like problem solving. I have also improved on my communication skills both written and verbal.
Higher level apprenticeships
Higher level apprenticeships can be used to ‘upskill’ current employees of any age. Last year we had 5 managers achieve the Solace ILM 5 Management & Leadership apprenticeship. This year there will be another ILM 5 cohort, an ILM 3 apprenticeship for Team Leaders and opportunities to become an accredited coach via the Solace National Coaching Apprenticeship.
For more information visit the National apprenticeship website:
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