Witney News - Council in search for new apprentice

Council in search for new apprentice

West Oxfordshire District Council is searching for a new apprentice to join its workforce and gain on-the-job training and qualifications.

The Council is looking for an enthusiastic individual to join its Information and Communication Technology (ICT) team and train as an apprentice over the next two years.

The apprentice will be part of a team responsible for providing ICT services and support to both West Oxfordshire and Cotswold district councils, working within a busy environment while gaining skills to help along the path to gaining a long-term career.

The search for a new apprentice follows a successful scheme first piloted in 2009, which saw the Council employ three apprentices in the Revenues and Benefits section using Government funding. Last year, two more apprentices were appointed, in Revenues and Benefits, but this will be the first ICT apprenticeship.

The application process is now underway. The successful candidate will be provided with a combination of in-house and external training with the opportunity to attend Microsoft training courses and study for the relevant Microsoft exams.

Cllr Simon Hoare, Cabinet Member for Resources, said: “We are extremely pleased to be offering another apprenticeship scheme, especially in ICT where demand for experienced and skilled employees is greater than ever.

“It offers an alternative to college or university and is a marvellous opportunity for an enthusiastic young person to gain on-the-job training and qualifications at a time when it is so difficult for them to enter the job market.”

The closing date for applications is 27 February 2012.

To find out how to apply, visit the Council’s website www.westoxon.gov.uk/jobs, or call 01993 861515.