Success of Highland’s Modern and Graduate Apprenticeship Programme praised

Members of The Highland Council’s Corporate Resources Committee, which took place today, have commended the success of the Modern and Graduate Apprenticeship Programme, a scheme which has enabled several hundred individuals to undertake training and enhance their skills in a variety of roles and locations across the Highlands.

The apprenticeship programme has been in place since 2017 and is open to those aged between 16 – 67 years old.  Since its launch, the programme has seen over 320 staff enrol with 119 of those having completed training to date.

The Council has facilitated a range of opportunities, both for new employees and existing staff, across a range of work areas and continues to grow the portfolio of apprenticeships which can be offered.  The current frameworks include:

Apprenticeships are delivered in partnership with a broad range of training providers both locally and across Scotland utilising University, College and independent training provision for the Apprentices across all Highland Council services.  

The Modern Apprenticeship Programme sees apprentices committing to between 2–4 years of learning and work experience within the organisation.  On completion of their qualification, they have several years of real time work experience, providing much needed life skills and a sound understanding of the working world in their chosen profession. 

Work is currently underway in the development of further apprentice frameworks in order that the Council can provide opportunities to match workforce needs.

On the Graduate side of the apprenticeship programme, six different frameworks are currently offered:

Congratulating those involved, Chair of the Corporate Resources committee, Councillor Jimmy Gray, said:  “My sincere thanks to those involved in the success and continuation of this key programme. Very well done to our apprentices and interns who have completed their training and are now prospering in their roles benefiting from the excellent support of their line managers who act as mentors to the staff.

Councillor Gray continued:  “As an organisation we are committed to supporting employment within Highland and are actively involved in creating pathways from Youth Trainee work placements to Modern and Graduate Apprenticeship opportunities for groups such as Care Experienced and underrepresented groups as well as those who have been adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This is a vital programme and plays a key role in contributing opportunities and growth for the Highland workforce and economy.”

Highland Council apprenticeship opportunities are advertised throughout the year with apprenticeships starting from £9.78 per hour including a great benefits package. All of our apprentice posts are advertised on the MyJobScotland website.

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