DDC apprentice Rhianna Overall with HR support office Gemma Bragdton and HR manager Claire Wagstaff-Townend
DDC is marking National Apprenticeship Week 2025 (10-16 Feb) by inviting local businesses to apply for funding to support them in taking on an apprentice.
The funds are being made available through DDC to encourage employers to boost their businesses and discover new talent through the apprenticeship scheme.
DDC has offered a range of apprenticeships, graduate placements and work experience since 2012 and has numerous apprentice success stories.
The scheme allows people to learn on the job while studying for a recognised qualification. It’s also a great way to upskill existing employees, or grow the workforce by bringing in new talent, giving people valuable career pathways.
The council is now providing this opportunity to others by offering to transfer part of its apprenticeship levy fund to local businesses.
DDC is inviting applications from employers based in the Dover district who wish to train or recruit staff on an apprenticeship for up to two years or up to a Level 4 qualification.
For full eligibility criteria and how to apply please visit the DDC website here.
DDC leader Cllr Kevin Mills said: “We are committed to ensuring people have opportunities to develop the skills needed to pursue a career they desire.
“As a council, we provide apprenticeship placements and have watched our apprentices thrive, bringing great benefits to Dover District Council and to them in turn.
“We want to extend this opportunity to local businesses so they too can grow and take advantage of the talent we have in our district.
“For apprentices, it is the chance to combine real work with study, meaning hands on experiences while earning a salary and gaining qualifications.”
Rhianna Overall is an HR and health & safety apprentice at DDC. She started in 2024 after graduating from university.
She said: “For me, an apprenticeship has been a step into the world of work.
“After leaving university, I was still eager to learn but I also wanted to earn a wage.
“An apprenticeship at DDC provided that perfect opportunity for me to gain valuable hands-on experience in HR and health and safety, learning from skilled professionals.
“The practical skills I have learnt from this apprenticeship will make it easier for me to transition into a full-time job.
“The experience you gain from an apprenticeship makes you appealing to employers and you also gain recognised qualifications that are valued within your field.”
Notes
National Apprenticeship Week takes place annually and highlights how apprenticeships are a great way to start a career or retrain, or for employers to help grow their business.
It brings together organisations and apprentices to show the positive impact on businesses, individuals and the wider economy.
Posted on 11 February 2025