City Council in UK top 100 for apprentices

Plymouth City Council has been recognised in the prestigious Top 100 Apprenticeship Employer list, sponsored by City and Guilds, which is compiled annually by the National Apprenticeship Service and recognises excellence in businesses that employ apprentices.

The list was announced at the National Apprenticeship Awards, which took place last month in London.

After a tough selection process the most exceptional apprenticeship employers from all National Apprenticeship Awards employer categories went forward to feature in the list, which showcases the breadth of employers who now offer apprenticeships.

Council Leader Tudor Evans said: “I am extremely proud that our apprenticeships scheme has been recognised nationally for the opportunities we are able to offer our young people. I spend a huge part of everyday trying to get young people from Plymouth into work and this Council is absolutely committed to helping our young people achieve their dreams.”

The City Council was recognised for their apprenticeship scheme because of the commitment and support it offers young people. Over 90 per cent of apprentices who study an apprenticeship whilst working at the Council go on to gain full time employment on completion of their course or progress to a higher level of qualification, equipping them with valuable work experience and an industry recognised qualification to start a new career or progress to higher education.

Sue Husband, Director of the National Apprenticeship Service said: “The Top 100 Apprenticeship Employer list 2015 demonstrates clearly the impact apprentices can have on an organisation. These Top 100 apprenticeship employers have made a difference to the lives of young people by investing in their future whilst apprentices themselves help employers to develop a skilled, qualified workforce that builds a stronger economy. Apprentice employers are creating opportunities for young people to gain the skills and knowledge they need to succeed, in some cases up to degree level, while working and earning. I hope that the success of these Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers will encourage more businesses across England to follow their example and find out how apprenticeships can help grow a skilled and highly qualified workforce.”

Chris Jones, Chief Executive of the City & Guilds Group, said: “High quality apprenticeship programmes can help individuals gain the skills they need to progress. And for employers, apprenticeships play a crucial role in developing a skilled workforce. These Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers have experienced these benefits first hand; I hope other employers are motivated to follow in their footsteps.”

For more information about apprenticeships opportunities at Plymouth City Council visit www.plymouth.gov.uk/plymouthapprenticeships

To see the full top 100 apprenticeship employer list visit www.gov.uk/government/news/national-apprenticeship-award-winners-announced