An award-winning former apprentice is encouraging others to follow in his footsteps by applying for one of 36 new roles being offered at Durham County Council.
Daniel Mudd started his career as a business administration apprentice in 2015 before securing his current role as a licensing assistant, and was named the council’s Young Employee of the Year in 2017.
“Applying for an apprenticeship was one of the best decisions I’ve made and has really helped me get a foot on the career ladder while gaining lots of invaluable hands-on experience,” he said.
“The opportunities to move into other roles within the council and work in a variety of teams has helped show me a lot about different ways of working and greatly improved my communication skills.
“As you learn on the job, you often don’t need previous experience to be considered or accepted and I would encourage any other young people thinking about their futures to look at the opportunities on offer.”
There are currently 36 apprenticeship posts in areas including business admin, civil engineering, accounting and catering to name just a few, with the roles starting in September 2018.
John Hewitt, the council’s corporate director of resources, joined Sedgefield Borough Council through the Youth Training Scheme in 1988 and said the role had helped kickstart his career.
“That first role – which is very similar to today’s apprenticeship schemes – helped me learn all about the world of work and working with people for many different backgrounds. I picked up lots of skills which have been extremely useful as my career has developed,” he said.
“We are a big council providing many different services and there are a broad range of roles and opportunities we can offer people who are interested in getting into work whilst continuing with vocational qualifications. Durham is a fantastic place to work and to develop a career.
“When I started my career I never thought for one minute I would end up where I am now – but the opportunities are there – apprenticeships provide hands on work experience and the opportunity to work your way into senior positions if you have the desire to do well.”
Apprentices will receive formal training towards a recognized qualification as well as gaining technical knowledge, practical experience and the wider skill needed for employment.
Successful applicants will also be part of an Apprenticeship Network where they can receive updates of what is happening across the council including any training or job opportunities available.
Applicants need to register with the North East Recruitment Portal online at www.northeastjobs.org.uk to see the opportunities available.
The deadline for applications is Monday, 4 June.
