Mayor Leads Call For New Apprentices

The Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority are recruiting two new apprentices to join the team.

As part of their commitment to young people, their career choices and development, two Business Administration roles have been created. As well as learning and developing key skills, the successful applicants will also have the opportunity for further career development.

With its strong commitment to helping young people develop their careers, something Mayor Ben Houchen has championed since been elected, the organisation regularly takes on a number of apprenticeships and traineeships, allowing those who take part the chance to gain hands-on experience.

Three young people who previously applied to become apprentices, Ameer Khan, 22, Niamh Cooney, 18, and Ellis McBride, 19, have been given permanent roles within Education, Employment and Skills, Communications and Marketing and HR respectively.

Laura Harrison, 20, who joined as a full-time member of staff, is now being supported in a Level 3 Business and Administration qualification.

These opportunities could support young people keen to study for NVQ Level 2 or 3 Business Administration, so applications are encouraged for those looking to commence a Level 2, or progress to a Level 3, having passed a Level 2 qualification elsewhere.

The call comes following the news that the organisation has been shortlisted in the Apprenticeship Organisation Category at the Tees Valley BME Achievement Awards 2019, with the results to be announced on Friday, 20 September.

Mayor Houchen said: “I know that university education isn’t for everyone and nor is it necessary to secure a rewarding, well-paid career in the Tees Valley. By championing alternative routes to work, including apprenticeships, I’m leading by example and highlighting the benefits these bring – not just to get people into jobs, but also for businesses themselves.”

“As well as rewarding our existing valued apprentices with permanent contracts, and supporting other staff in their career development, we have just said goodbye to nine paid summer interns who worked incredibly hard on a range of projects.”

Ellis joined the Combined Authority in October 2018 and is about to embark upon a Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development qualification via an NVQ Level 3 in HR. She said: “I decided to apply for an apprenticeship as I had just left college and knew that university wouldn’t be for me – I wanted to get hands-on experience in a real working environment.

“I’ve had loads of support in my studies and career progression and feel like this is a job that will really help me get on. I have been made to feel appreciated and an important part of the team and really enjoy what I do, so I’d recommend applying to anyone.”

For more information or to apply, visit teesvalley-ca.gov.uk/jobs. The closing date for applications is Friday, September 27.