Early years apprenticeships up for grabs

Date: 
Monday, 6 May, 2019


image of apprenticesYoung people in East Dunbartonshire, looking for a Modern Apprenticeship as their route into a career in early years and childcare should check out the latest opportunities at the Council.

Six Modern Apprenticeships are being offered in centres across the area to help local young people make that first step into the world of work.

To support the Scottish Government’s expansion in early learning and childcare*, it is estimated that up to 11,000 additional professionals will be needed across Scotland over the coming years.

These Modern Apprenticeships offer a chance to get into a growing field with a clear career pathway at just the right time, getting on-the-job training and time to study while being paid.

The apprenticeships are advertised on www.myjobscotland.gov.uk and the closing date for applications is Friday 31 May 2019. The roles are open to East Dunbartonshire residents, aged 16-24years.

Joint Council Leader Andrew Polson, said, "I am delighted that we are again able to offer a Modern Apprenticeship Programme, giving local young people access to quality opportunities within the Council. This year's recruitment drive brings the total number of local young people recruited over the last six years to just over 60.

“Modern apprenticeships are growing in popularity as a career path as young people can see the value in learning on-the-job while continuing their studies and earning. They experience all aspects of the job and learn new skills with the support of professional team mates."

Joint Council Leader Vaughan Moody added, “As the area's biggest employer, we are leading the way in offering these opportunities and are building an award-winning programme that attracts top applicants.

"We invest heavily in our new recruits to help them get the most out of their time with us and many of our apprentices have gone on to be recognised at national awards events and have built successful careers. In return, we benefit from their energy, enthusiasm and knowledge.

"We are accepting applications until 31 May and I’d encourage young people to seriously consider this as a career path."

Josh Brown, 18 from Milngavie is a first year apprentice at Baljaffray Nursery. He said, “I am loving my apprenticeship in early years. Every day is different in the nursery and it’s so rewarding seeing the children learning through play. Getting feedback from them, staff and parents is really motivating and makes me sure I’ve made the right decision to pursue a career in early years."

* By 2020 families will be entitled to 1140 hours of funded early years and childcare for all three and four year olds and eligible two year olds, increasing from the current allocation of 600 hours.

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