Apprentices make a vital contribution to local government, undertaking a vast array of roles. On the day we saw the enthusiasm and commitment that apprentices bring to their work. It was hard to predict who would win with so much talent on display, as they stepped up to all the challenges thrown at them.
Bryony Houlden, Chief Executive, South West Councils, and Michelle Kirk, Director, East of England LGA
“On Thursday 22 April 2021, more than 100 local government apprentices came together to compete for the title of Local Government Apprentice of the Year 2021. During this national event, apprentices faced six online activities, in teams of people they had never ‘met’ before. The activities were based around a variety of disciplines, such as networking and enterprise. The day was designed to be fast-paced, action-packed and challenging to observe performance under pressure both individually and within teams. The day concluded by awarding prizes to 3 runners up, a winning team and the overall winner ‘Local Government Apprentice of the Year 2021’.” Read the full article here.
Huge congratulation to Thomas Zaidi, Project Officer Apprentice at Essex County Council, for being part of the winning team. Thomas recently spoke to us about his Apprenticeship experiences and how it has positively impacted his career.
Why did you choose do an apprenticeship?
I wasn’t really sure what I wanted to do when I left college, I applied for multiple apprenticeships and even thought about university, I finally found a role in Trading Standards as an Apprentice Intelligence officer, I spent 12 months in this role before moving to a Buy With Confidence Project Officer Apprentice in Trading Standards.
What impact has the apprenticeship programme had on your career?
I’ve gained a variety of new skills as well as improving some skills I already feel I had. I’ve also met a great group of people who have supported me throughout my career and taught me a lot of what I need to know within my job role.
Why would you recommend apprenticeships to other people looking at career options?
Apprenticeships are a great way for people to get a feel for a workplace and gain experience in a job role that could be a deciding factor in someone’s career. It also gives the apprentice the opportunity to meet people with large amounts of knowledge and experience in certain roles and build up contacts that could be incredibly helpful in the future.
Why would you recommend ACL as an apprenticeship provider to other employers?
ACL are a great apprenticeship provider and have multiple ways for apprentices to learn and gain knowledge through college days, blended learning, and enrichment sessions. The support provided by tutors is great and they are always available if needed.
What has been your highlight as an apprentice so far?
Taking part and being a member of the winning team during the apprentice of the year event is a massive highlight and gave me an insight into other apprentices situations across the country.
Working in Trading Standards is also a massive highlight and is a great place to work with great colleagues.
We are continuing to deliver our high-quality apprenticeship programme throughout the Covid-19 pandemic and can help you consider different options for your business and the specific circumstances you are currently working within. Businesses could receive funding of up to £3,000 to support them to take on a new apprentice and we offer apprenticeships at intermediate, advanced and higher levels. To find out more about how an ACL apprenticeship could help your business visit our apprenticeship page.
