The County has one of the fastest growing economies in terms of productivity which is reinforced by apprenticeship numbers growing year on year.

The 11th National Apprenticeship Week is running from 5-9 March and the County Council is supporting it by reminding people that the organisation can offer apprenticeships at intermediary, advanced and higher levels in the following areas: Customer Service, Business Administration, Finance and Accounting, Social Care, Civil Engineering (Highways), and IT and Digital Development.

The County Council is actively working to expand the types and levels of apprenticeship opportunities that are currently available.

Current Worcestershire County Council apprentice in Civil Engineering, Jared Witcomb, said: “From the first day of my apprenticeship I knew I had made the right decision and the mixture of practical and theoretical learning suits me perfectly.

“I’m enjoying gaining experience and developing my skills and have a great support network.”

Aisha Zaheer, former Worcestershire County Council apprentice in Business Administration, said: “I decided to start an apprenticeship instead of going to university as this gave me the opportunity to work and earn at the same time. I gained so much experience and the support I received was invaluable. After completing my apprenticeship in December 2017 I started a full time, permanent position as a Project Support Officer at the County Council.

“Completing my apprenticeship allowed me to develop skills to succeed in my future career.”

Marcus Hart, Cabinet Member with Responsibility for Education and Skills, said: “Apprenticeships provide a clear path for young people from education to employment. We are proud to be playing a part in developing our workforce whilst providing opportunities for individuals in the wider community.”

In 2017, Worcestershire saw 5,440 people start apprenticeships, an increase on last year and a faster increase than the national average.

It is Worcestershire County Council’s ambition for all children and young people to succeed in their careers in the county. Together with the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, the County Council champions careers’ programmes and apprenticeship schemes to increase opportunities in key economic sectors.

During National Apprenticeship Week employers and apprentices will celebrate the success of apprenticeships and the positive impact they have on individuals, businesses and the wider economy, whilst encouraging even more people to choose apprenticeships as a pathway to a great career.

For information about current apprenticeship vacancies visit the Worcestershire County Council Apprenticeship Vacancy page.

The County Council is also hosting Worcestershire Skills Show, Worcestershire’s largest careers event. It is taking place on Wednesday 7 March at Chateau Impney and provides young people from Years 7 to 13 with a chance to meet with Worcestershire’s largest employers from a variety of industries. For more information, visit our website.