Today’s guest blog comes from Jaya Kaur, Marketing and Communications Apprentice at Bristol City Council.

This week we celebrated National Apprenticeships Week (3-9 February), which shines a light on apprentices and employers across the country. The aim is to encourage others to look beyond the common stereotypes surrounding apprenticeships and celebrate the diversity of opportunity and value they bring to our city and beyond.

I’ve always liked the option of doing an apprenticeship because you can learn whilst working and that was a better option for me. After leaving college, I applied for various jobs but I was unable to find anything I really wanted to pursue.

At this point, I started to look at alternative routes into work and after much persistence I secured this apprenticeship. I was drawn to this type of role because of the experience that it would offer me in social media, events and campaigns. I was really nervous at the interview, but I felt passionately that this was something I really wanted to do.

Since joining the council I’ve gained experience working on a wide range of projects including St Nicholas Market, Bristol’s Going for Gold bid and National Apprenticeship Week. I’ve also developed a range of skills including producing and editing films. This week I had the chance to interview apprentices from across the council who shared their thoughts on apprenticeships and the benefits they have to offer.

Overall, I think this whole journey has opened my eyes to how important it is to keep positive and motivated.  I’ve learned so much on my apprenticeship and it has certainly changed my whole outlook and aspirations for life. If you’re thinking of applying for an apprenticeship, I would certainly suggest you go for it. It’s a good option for those who want to start a career and learn at the same time.

Bristol City Council currently has over 250 apprentices across all areas, including the Mayor’s Office. They help deliver key services and play an important role in the organisation. Current apprentice vacancies include Chartered Town Planner, Solicitor and Business Administrator roles. 

Did you know?

• Apprenticeships are suitable for anyone aged 16 or over
• Apprenticeships are available at a range of levels, from Level 2 for those just starting their career to Level 7 Master’s Degree equivalent across professional and management roles
• Apprenticeships cover a range of sectors, including law, finance, education, sales, marketing, IT as well as more traditional subjects
• Doing an apprenticeship can increase your long term earning potential and are also great for those returning to work or changing career
• Apprenticeships offer a competitive salary whilst all your training costs are paid, including at degree level

If you would like to apply for the apprenticeship programme, visit the Bristol City Council website.

For information about National Apprenticeship Week, click here.