Are you between 16 and 65? Why not become an apprentice

If you’re looking for a change of career, or a job developing new skills, why not consider West Sussex County Council’s Apprenticeship Scheme?

It is open to everyone from 16 right up to 65 years old, and gives paid employment and training to support the apprentice.

There will be 60 apprenticeships coming up over the next few months, ranging from caretakers to customer service positions, nursery assistants to social care support workers, engineering to surveying, and cooks to business administration. The only exception to the scheme is that graduates cannot apply.

Leader of West Sussex County Council Louise Goldsmith said: “This is an innovative scheme for people of all ages. The County Council made a commitment to employ 200 apprentices as part of our Keep West Sussex Working initiative, helping residents and businesses through the recession.”

Nineteen year-old Chloe Cobb has recently started as an apprentice at the West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service reception desk in Chichester.

“I read about the scheme on the internet and decided to apply. I would definitely recommend the Apprenticeship Scheme – it’s good experience and a great way to learn,” she said.

The apprenticeships last from one to four years and working hours vary from 16 to 37 hours a week. Training through a local training provider or college is given to support the apprenticeship.

For further information and current vacancies, visit the County Council website at www.westsussex.gov.uk or www.apprentices.org.uk.