Stroud District Council is handing over its social media platforms to its apprentices this National Apprenticeship Week.
Taking over its social media from Monday 5 to Sunday 11 February 2024, the apprentices will be sharing a typical day in their role, showcasing the on-the-job skills and experience they're gaining, as well as providing an insight into the inner workings of the council.
Stroud District Council currently employs 12 apprentices — who work in a variety of departments from finance to plumbing and carpentry — and has won awards for its contribution to apprenticeships. It hopes that this National Apprenticeship Week will showcase the positive impact apprenticeships have in the working environment.
SDC's chief executive, Kathy O’ Leary, said: 'Our apprentices bring so much enthusiasm and positivity to our workplace and we really value and appreciate their hard work. National Apprenticeship Week is a chance to showcase the talented work that our apprentices do each day for the council, and to promote the council’s apprenticeship schemes.
'All apprentices at the council have the opportunity to grow their career and they also have full access to the council’s support systems.'
Head of HR, Lucy Powell, added: 'Apprenticeships offer a fantastic chance to study, earn a wage and gain valuable on-the-job skills all at the same time. Earning while you learn is a great opportunity for apprentices who feel that university might not be the right next step for them. Apprentices also get to work alongside experienced and passionate colleagues in a variety of departments at the council.'
Working in partnership with Cirencester College, apprentices at Stroud District Council benefit from one-to-one coaching, as well as workshops tailored to their position, which help them develop the key skills, knowledge and behaviours they need to succeed in their role.
Former apprentice and current human resources assistant, Katie Bailey, said: 'I started my apprenticeship at 16-years-old in the environmental health administration team, then during Covid I joined the licensing team and now I am in the HR department undertaking my CIPD qualification. For the five years I have been at Stroud District Council, they have been amazing for my career development and have supported me throughout my apprenticeships.'
Follow Stroud District Council on Instagram, Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) to see how the apprentices get on.