Bristol apprentices share stories to inspire others to apply
Apprentices give an insight into how apprenticeships can lead to a rewarding career as part of National Apprenticeships Week (8 – 14 February).
This year’s theme is ‘Build the Future’ and apprentices are sharing their experiences via social media to show how working as an apprentice is helping them to develop their skills to boost their careers.
Rosie Seabourne, 20, who started as a Level 2 Business Administrator apprentice in the Arts and Events team in January 2019, recently progressed to a Level 4 Project Management apprenticeship, the equivalent to a foundation degree, proving that apprenticeships can quickly progress career paths.
Rosie said: “There have been many highlights during my apprenticeship, which are owed to the Arts and Events team, who I feel extremely lucky to be able to learn from. I know when my contract ends in two years, I will have gained the practical experience and knowledge to confidently take the next step in my career.”
Rosie will be sharing more of her story via a Twitter takeover on Monday 8 February: @WORKSBristol. You can send her your questions with the hashtag #AskRosieBCC.
Also taking part is Christopher Lay, 25, who works as a Level 2 Business Support apprentice in the Bristol Apprenticeship Team. Chris will be live Tweeting about his day on Thursday 11 February via the Bristol WORKS account. Chris said: “I hope to offer some insight into my day to day work as an apprentice and ultimately inspire others to apply for an apprenticeship.” You can send Chris your questions with the hashtag #AskChrisBCC.
Bristol City Council run 54 apprenticeship programmes with 275 apprentices currently employed in a variety of roles including data analysis, engineering and health and social care. We are committed to diversity and encourage young people, disabled people and people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority communities to apply. Additionally, the council pays all its apprentices aged 16 plus the Real Living Wage.
Councillor Anna Keen, Cabinet Lead for Education and Skills said: “As a Learning City we are committed to supporting people of all ages to develop their skills including through apprenticeships, particularly because we know the pandemic has had a real impact on employment and training opportunities.
“We want everyone to consider apprenticeships as a pathway to a rewarding career, whether you’re deciding which career to take, or thinking about changing jobs altogether. The benefits are numerous; they are open to anyone aged 16 and over, help you gain new skills to improve your prospects and earning potential, plus your training costs are paid.”
Businesses who are keen to take on an apprentice may be eligible for an investment from the Bristol City Council Apprenticeship Sharing Levy, which provides funding to local businesses to support the costs of employing citizens in apprenticeship roles. Businesses who are interested can find out more and how to apply by contacting our apprenticeships team: Bristol.Apprentices@bristol.gov.uk.
To find out more about apprenticeships in Bristol City Council visit www.bristol.gov.uk
