Frequently asked questions

Some apprenticeships will require Maths and English GCSEs. If they do, it will be listed in the job description. All other apprenticeships require you to pass functional skills. You do not need this to apply, it can be completed while you do your apprenticeship. You will be given a tutor and exam support to help you pass.

No, apprenticeships offer a different option where you can learn and earn at the same time. Often the subjects you might study are the same, for example project management or IT, but at university you’ll learn through academic methods, whereas on an apprenticeship your learning would be more practical.

Employers value the combination of a qualification and the work experience you’ll gain during your apprenticeship. At the end of the apprenticeship, you could choose to look for a job, progress to the next level of an apprenticeship, or return to higher education.

The way training is delivered depends on the apprenticeship level and the provider. Some may need you to go to college, while others are online. When you start with us, we’ll connect you with the provider who will explain how it’s going to work. If your course requires that you go to college, we’ll pay for the fees and will reimburse your travel costs.

This will depend on the apprenticeship you undertake, however the purpose of the apprenticeship is to make you ready for a real job. You’ll have real responsibility and be learning from the experienced staff you’ll be working alongside.

Yes. You should apply for each role you are interested in, and if unsuccessful, we welcome multiple applications.

There’s a minimum wage for apprentices, currently this is £6.40 per hour for apprentices in their first year. After this it increases to the minimum wage for your age.

• 25.5 days paid annual leave (pro rata for part time staff)
• Flexible and hybrid working options subject to role and business requirements.
• Local government pension scheme and Life Assurance
• Salary sacrifice schemes for bicycles and electric cars
• Access to discounts at nationwide retailers through our ‘B Rewarded’ perks discount site
• Funded healthcare cash plan including optical and dental
• Subsidised annual health checks and free flu vaccinations
• Access to a free and confidential employee assistance program

Our apprenticeships last for a set amount of time, but we will do our best to keep you on once it’s completed. Your manager will talk with you about what’s next when your contract ends. We’ll also keep an eye out for other jobs in the council because your new skills may be useful in different teams.