Dudley Council has supported more than 400 members of staff to develop their skills and training in the last three years.

The government’s apprenticeship levy, which was introduced in 2017 has given the council an opportunity to offer a wide range of apprenticeship qualifications to both new recruits and existing staff.  So far 426 people have signed up. Staff can choose to participate in an apprenticeship alongside their normal duties and have more than 66 different subject areas to choose from, available up to degree level.

The council is working in partnership with 34 training providers, many of whom are locally based colleges and independent specialist training companies to offer the courses and develop bespoke apprenticeship standards that support staff into management and leadership roles.

In developing staff skills and training, the council aims to meet future workforce requirements in line with its 2030 forging a future for all vision. It’s also supporting ten businesses across Dudley borough through the transfer of levy funds scheme to offer apprenticeships to staff and already more than 70 are signed up to the scheme. Councillor Phipps, cabinet member for procurement, transformation and commercialisation said:

"As a former apprentice myself, I know how important apprenticeships can be when you are starting and developing your career. In these difficult times, it is vital that we look to use our position as a large local employer to support people into work.

"This is precisely what we are doing as the second highest local authority apprentice recruiter in the region. We are offering first class training and development opportunities for new and existing staff with our new leadership and management development programme.

"This will develop local talent to make sure that we can provide excellent services for our residents both now and in the future. I would urge people looking for their first or next step in their career to consider Dudley's apprenticeship opportunities."

Apprenticeship vacancies can be found on WM Jobs and are advertised throughout the year.