Apprenticeship scheme is a winner
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- Category: Walsall Council
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Walsall Council's successful apprenticeship scheme which has helped young people gain experience in everything from benefits to housing and horticulture has been hailed as a shining example of good practice.
The council received the Macro Employer of the Year award at the Regional Apprenticeship Awards organised by the National Apprenticeship Service. It recognises the council's commitment to employing apprentices and helping them gain valuable on the job experience to progress in their chosen careers whilst contributing to the work of the authority.
The apprenticeship scheme was launched in July 2009 and is on target to meet its aim of recruiting up to 60 young people by the end of July 2011. A total of 28 service areas have signed up to the scheme including revenue and benefits, ICT, Human Resources, Street Pride and Countryside Services.
Councillor Mike Bird, Walsall Council leader, said: "The apprenticeship scheme is a great opportunity for young people to join an established workforce and learn about what a job entails by getting involved from day one.
"As part of their apprenticeship they get access to a number of training opportunities which helps them broaden their skills base and our existing staff can certainly benefit from the input of these young people who bring with them new and exciting ideas.
"The apprentices are the workforce of the future and it is great to think we are helping them as they embark on their working life."
The council now goes through to the next round of judging, which if successful, leads to the national finals in London on 29 June.
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