Witney News - You’re Hired! Council in search for apprentices

You’re Hired! Council in search for apprentices

The search is on for three apprentices to join West Oxfordshire District Council and gain on-the-job training and qualifications.

The Council is looking for three enthusiastic individuals to join its Revenues and Benefits Service to train as apprentices over the next two years.

Each will have the chance to gain level-3 National Vocational Qualifications in Customer Services and either Local Taxation or Housing Benefit Administration.

There has been a rise in the number of Council Tax and housing benefit claims as a result of the recession and the apprentices will help to deal with the increased workload, while receiving quality training and skills to help them on the path to gaining a long-term career.

Cllr Simon Hoare, Cabinet Member for Resources, said: “By using Government funding to create apprenticeships we will be able to provide an even better service to local people. The scheme also allows young people the opportunity of learning about what the Council does and hopefully getting them to consider working in the public sector.”

“It is envisaged that the trained and qualified apprentices will find permanent jobs within the Council – this is the Council’s Alan Sugar moment – I look forward to saying “You’re hired”.

The Government has given funding to all local authorities to help deal with an increase in benefit applications caused by the recession. Some have chosen to employ temporary staff, however West Oxfordshire District Council believes that its apprenticeship scheme provides a longer-term solution, while creating career opportunities for the three successful candidates.

It will be the first time that the Council has employed its own apprentices and it is keen to hear from anyone who may be interested in applying for a post.

The closing date for applications is September 1st 2009 and it is expected that the apprentices will be in post by the end of September.

To find out how to apply visit the Council’s website www.westoxon.gov.uk/jobs or call 01993 861505.