Somerset’s youth earn while they learn

Somerset’s youth earn while they learn

Somerset County Council is taking part in an initiative that aims to raise achievement across the county among young people seeking apprenticeship work in the voluntary or public sector.

The scheme – a partnership between the county council, Taunton Deane Borough Council, Avon and Somerset Constabulary, SCAT and Connexions – offers 16 to 19-year-olds the chance to make progress in a challenging and rewarding career without having to follow the usual academic route. It allows participants to experience working in two or more local organizations, exposing them to a range of working experiences.

The initiative builds on the success of an existing Somerset County Council scheme that started in 1995 and will see its 200th apprentice graduate this year. Last year, all 29 participants graduated and secured permanent employment with the county council while completing an NVQ. The new scheme is funded by the Taunton Deane Local Strategic Partnership, and will also require that participants complete an NVQ.

Applicants undergo a rigorous selection process involving skill assessments, interviews and group exercises. Short-listed candidates then receive interview-preparation training before being interviewed for their placements at their chosen organizations.