A celebration event is being held next week to recognise the contribution apprentices make to local authority services across Cumbria.
Apprentices from Cumberland and Westmorland and Furness Councils and Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service are being invited to the event to thank them for their work and the positive impact they make to communities.
The event at Penrith Rugby Club on Friday 9 February will be the culmination of National Apprenticeship Week (NAW), an annual opportunity for the education and skills sector and employers to celebrate the achievements of apprentices.
The theme for NAW 2024, which runs from 5-11 February is 'Skills For Life' and there will be a different focus each day from apprenticeships for all, to a focus on individual stories.
Both Cumberland and Westmorland and Furness Councils expect to recruit dozens of new apprentices into roles this year, including civil engineering, highways engineering, business administration, project management, accountancy and care services. Recruitment for specific roles will begin in March.
Many successful applicants go on to secure permanent roles and the opportunity to make a long-term career within local government.
The Apprenticeships Team will be at school and college events throughout next week as well as hosting two ‘More than you think’ online information sessions on Tuesday 6 February and Thursday 8 February, both at 5pm.
The online events will provide help and advice to those starting a new career and considering the apprenticeship route. The events are aimed at young people, parents and carers who are interested in finding out more about the options available.
Those with an interest are also advised to follow the employers’ social media channels throughout next week for more information and case studies of successful applicants. More details can be found online at Cumbriaapprenticeships.org.uk.
The week will close with the lunchtime celebration event which will be attended by senior figures from all three employers.
Councillor Elaine Lynch, Cumberland Council Executive Member for Lifelong Learning and Development, said:
"We’ll be honouring our dedicated apprentices at the celebratory event on 9 February for National Apprenticeship Week 2024. As we reflect on the theme 'Skills For Life' we recognise the invaluable contributions these apprentices make to our communities. The week-long celebrations will showcase diverse apprenticeship opportunities, from civil engineering to care services, with an emphasis on individual success stories.
“Follow our social media channels for insights and join our online sessions to explore the limitless possibilities of apprenticeships. Let's celebrate a future of skills, growth, and meaningful careers within local government."
For more information visit Cumbriaapprenticeships.org.uk or follow @cumbriacouncilapprenticeships on Instagram and the three authorities on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X.