Council celebrates Scottish Apprenticeship Week

Published 1 March 2021

Scottish Apprenticeship Week kicks off on Monday March 1 and this year we are showcasing the great things that happen when employers back talent through apprenticeships.

Work EastRen, the team which leads our Modern Apprentice programme, did not allow the Covid-19 pandemic to disrupt their work as they supported 21 candidates to gain their qualifications and secure full-time employment across a variety of roles including childcare, administration and joinery. The team is also in the process of recruiting a further 15 apprentices for roles in childcare, facilities management and hospitality.

A Modern Apprenticeship allows candidates to learn on the job, gaining valuable hands-on experience, whilst getting paid. They also receive the same benefits as other employees, such as holiday entitlement and pension contributions.

A recent graduate of the programme is mum-of-two, Stephanie Allison. Stephanie is now employed as a Child Development Officer with the Council following the completion of her qualifications.

She said: 'My mum is a Senior Childcare Development Officer and she told me about the apprenticeships, so I went for it and was delighted when I heard I had secured the role. I was gaining valuable experience every day, while working towards my qualifications. I would highly recommend the programme to anyone - it is the best decision I ever made.'

The Council's nursery facilities regularly support the apprenticeship programme, with McCready Family Centre recently benefitting from the scheme.

Michelle Liddell from the McCready Family Centre said: 'The modern apprentices who have joined us have been a real asset here at the McCready Family Centre. They are enthusiastic about their work and gaining hands-on experience; we are all really proud that they are achieving qualifications that will help them further their career. There is excellent support available to both employers and apprentices from the Council's Work EastRen team, so I would encourage any employer to take part in the modern apprentice programme and give someone this excellent job opportunity.'

Council Leader Tony Buchanan added: 'Our Modern Apprentice programme is something we are very proud of and it is fantastic to hear that despite the unprecedented past year we have all faced, the Work East Ren team maintained their support of our young people, those looking for work and local businesses. The roles are an excellent career opportunity but they also provide employers with the skills needed to adapt, sustain and strengthen. Well done to everyone who qualified over the last 12 months and good luck to those who will soon embark on their Modern Apprenticeship journey.'

To find out more or if you are business looking to get involved, .