Apprenticeships for 20

A NEW apprenticeship scheme, with places for 20 people, is being launched by Warrington Borough Council.
It will offer local people, including those not currently in education, employment or training, the chance to gain real life experiences of the world of work and nationally-recognised qualifications.
It is open to anybody and applications from 16 to 24-year-olds and unemployed people living in the local area are particularly welcomed.
New opportunities planned include roles with the council’s finance and legal teams as well as in catering, transport, parks and care services.
The first batch of apprentices will start later this year on an 18-month fixed term contract. Their rates of pay will reflect national minimum wage dependant on age; currently £3.68 per hour for 16-17 year olds, £4.98 for 18-20 year olds, £6.08 for those aged 21 or over.
This is higher than the national hourly rate of £2.60 for apprentices.
Cllr Terry O’Neill (pictured), leader of the council said: “It is very important that the council, as one of the largest local employers plays a vital role in helping to alleviate the impact of rising youth unemployment in Warrington.
“The scheme provides huge benefits for both the young people taking part and the authority and I would like to encourage other local employers to actively create apprenticeships opportunities in these times of economic uncertainty.”
Further details will soon be available on the council’s and the National Apprenticeship Service websites.