Stroud District Council's apprentices are showcasing their talents during National Apprenticeship Week (February 5-11) by taking over the council's social media channels.

The 17th annual National Apprenticeship Week celebrates apprentices across the country. It is a chance for apprentices, employers and colleges to demonstrate the positive attributes apprentices bring to the working environment.

Stroud District Council currently has 12 apprentices in a variety of roles - from working in the finance department to plumbing and carpentry.

As part of the social media takeover, current apprentices will show what a day in the life of an SDC apprentice looks like and provide an insight into what happens at the council.

Kathy O'Leary, Stroud District Council's chief executive, said: "Our apprentices bring so much enthusiasm and positivity to our workplace and we really value and appreciate their hard work.

"National Apprenticeship Week is a chance to showcase the talented work that our apprentices do each day for the council, and to promote the council's apprenticeship schemes. All apprentices at the council have the opportunity to grow their career and they also have full access to the council's support systems."

Lucy Powell, head of HR, said: "Apprenticeships offer a fantastic chance to study, earn a wage, and gain valuable on-the-job skills all at the same time. Earning while you learn is a great opportunity for apprentices who feel that university might not be the right next step for them. Apprentices also get to work alongside experienced and passionate colleagues in a variety of departments at the council."

Cirencester College is the educational provider for apprenticeships at SDC. Apprentices receive one-to-one coaching and workshops tailored to their position, helping them achieve key skills, knowledge and behaviours in their chosen field.

Katie Bailey, a current HR assistant, said: "I started my apprenticeship at 16 years old in the environmental health administration team. During Covid, I joined the licensing team and now I am in the HR department, undertaking my CIPD qualification.

"For the five years I have been at Stroud District Council, they have been amazing for my career development and have supported me throughout my apprenticeships."

The original press release for this story was written by Cara Laver, SDC comms apprentice.