Wiltshire Council is supporting National Apprenticeship Week, an annual event that takes place 6 – 12 February 2023 and is a week long celebration of apprenticeships.

This year’s theme is “Skills for Life”; reflecting on how apprenticeships can help individuals to develop the skills and knowledge required for a rewarding career, and businesses to develop a talented workforce that is equipped for the future.

Cllr Laura Mayes, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills said; “Wiltshire Council is committed to supporting the development of a skilled workforce that will enable our local economy to thrive. National Apprenticeships Week brings together businesses and apprentices to shine a light on the positive impact of apprenticeships for both businesses and the individual.

“We work in partnership with Swindon Borough Council and the Swindon and Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership to encourage employers of all sizes and sectors to consider apprenticeships for their business.

“Hiring an apprentice is a productive and effective way for any organisation to grow talent and develop a motivated, skilled and qualified workforce. Existing staff can also become an apprentice and it is a good way to upskill and develop existing staff.

“People can become an apprentice at any age and at any stage of their life. Apprenticeships are a great way to start a career but also to upskill while in a current job.”

Wiltshire Council has fully embraced apprenticeships and employs around 171 apprentices. Two of our apprentices, Leah Wilkinson and Mitchell MrGregor gave their views on why people should consider an apprenticeship.

Leah Wilkinson is a Social Worker apprentice studying for her Degree at Wiltshire Council, she said; “Think about your career aspirations, if you need a particular qualification look for an apprenticeship in that area. I think apprenticeships are great, you are paid to learn, gain a qualification and it’s all good experience.”

Mitchell MrGregor has just begun his Level 3 Apprenticeship as a Highways Asset Engineer Apprentice at Wiltshire Council, he said; “An apprenticeship is a great way to kickstart your career, it is more work than going to college or doing A-Levels, but you can get more out of it, and you are getting paid! At the Council there is great flexible working, and I can work from home going into the office one or two times a week.”

The Work Wiltshire website has a dedicated apprenticeship page with information for people thinking of starting an apprenticeship about the benefits, the industry sectors offering apprenticeships, entry skills and qualifications, plus current vacancies, including higher and degree level vacancies.

The website also has information for employers considering taking an apprentice into their workplace including the benefits apprenticeships could bring to their business, all the information and links they need and inspiring and interesting case studies from apprentices studying varying subjects.