Council welcomes new early years apprentices

Five of the early years modern apprentices with Councillor Lloyd Melville.

The 13 new recruits will work with the council’s experienced early years staff in various early learning and childcare settings across the county to gain practical skills and experience while providing high-quality learning experiences for children.

They will spend the first six months of the 18-month programme in practice at their ELCC before starting their SVQ level 3 Social Services (Children and Young People) delivered by Dundee and Angus College.

Councillor Beth Whiteside, council leader, said: “Angus Council is committed to investing in young people, creating opportunities for them to develop the skills and experience needed now and in the future. I’m delighted to welcome our new apprentices who I’m sure will make a real difference to the lives of little ones in Angus while training to become qualified early years practitioners.

“We also have a further eleven modern apprenticeship posts currently being recruited in various other services within the council over the next few months, providing a strong foundation for our future workforce.”

Cllr Lloyd Melville, Angus Council’s youth engagement and opportunities spokesperson, met some of the apprentices recently.

He said: “I’m pleased the council continues to offer apprenticeships giving young people in Angus the chance to take their first step on the career ladder while gaining valuable experience, skills and a qualification.”

Julie Grace, D&A College’s vice-principal for curriculum and attainment, added: "We have worked with Angus Council over a number of years to develop their workforce and provide the knowledge, skills and qualifications to enable young people to progress their career journeys.

“Delivering high-quality early learning and childcare experiences requires committed, well-qualified and professional staff and I am pleased to welcome the latest group of modern apprentices. The young people will be supported by our expert staff throughout their apprenticeship to become successful practitioners and provide positive experiences for the children of Angus.”