Council celebrates its apprentices and developing local talent
Monday 10 February 2025: Hillingdon Council is celebrating its apprentices and their contribution to services as part of National Apprenticeship Week (10 to 16 February).
Running for eight years, the council's apprenticeship programme has supported many former learners into permanent roles and helped others to successfully find employment or continue with further education. This year, 122 council apprentices are working across 25 services, including trading standards, social care, finance, planning, events and digital and intelligence.
The apprenticeships offered by the council are paid jobs, which provide hands-on experience and skills training for nationally recognised qualifications. There are opportunities in a variety of services, including business administration, building control, human resources, horticulture and social care.
The council also works in partnership with training providers, including Harrow, Richmond upon Thames and Uxbridge College (HRUC), to deliver apprenticeships for council staff in a range of subjects, including construction and built environment, early years, social care, legal, finance and accounting.
West Drayton resident, Nancy Major, aged 19, joined the council on a customer service level three apprenticeship in August 2022 and is now a permanent member of staff.
She said: "I wasn't very academic at school, but after a family member recommended the council's apprenticeship scheme - it was the start to my career and lifelong learning, and I've not looked back.
"It's been a whirlwind, I've worked with great teams and learnt so much along the way; gained a distinction in my customer services specialist apprenticeship and recently got a permanent position in the council, which is amazing.
"Being an apprentice and earning while you learn is a great option for anyone who feels that university might not be the right next step for them."
Cllr Jonathan Bianco, Hillingdon Council's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Corporate Services and Property, said: "We are continuing to work with HRUC, local businesses and partners to create opportunities for local people to improve their skills and have access to good quality jobs.
"Apprenticeships with the council offer candidates the chance to work in the public sector, with support and access to education and skills development, which are key to improving their outcomes."
For more information about the apprenticeships in Hillingdon, visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/apprenticeships.
