A total of £4.3 million is to be spent on the creation of more than 170 apprenticeship and graduate internship roles within an Ayrshire local authority.
And the package, announced by East Ayrshire Council, is set to kickstart more opportunities for young people aiming to climb the career ladder.
The placements will be offered at a range of levels, including trade apprenticeships, modern apprenticeships and graduate intern programmes in subjects as; diverse as plumbing, joinery, environmental health, youth work, mechanical engineering, health and social care and business administration.
The announcement is part of East Ayrshire Council’s jobs and training fund.
Councillors and trade unions from East Ayrshire viewed a presentation at the central joint consultative committee on progress with the fund.
And they heard how there will be ‘more opportunities than ever’ for young people to learn skills, gain worthwhile qualifications and ‘earn as they do so', with funding ‘dedicated to boosting career prospects'.
Andrew Wilson, joint chair of the committee and trade union representative, said: “For many years, I have been an advocate for increasing opportunities for young people, so the joint trade unions are delighted to see investment by the council in the workforce and local economy.”
Councillor Jim McMahon, also joint-chair of the committee, said: “This funding will help us infuse the council and local business with new young blood.
“We know from experience that bringing in young people benefits not just them, but their mentors and colleagues who can share their optimism, willingness to learn and help them hone their skills and professionalism for the future benefit of everyone in the area.
“As we recover from the pandemic, and with the current labour shortages, it makes sense to bolster our workforce in a way that will help build community wealth and equip our young people for success for many years to come.”
The first modern apprenticeships to be offered under the new scheme are now open for applications.
They include: modern apprentice (catering), modern apprentice (facilities assistant), modern apprentice (business admin), modern apprentice (social care).
Any unsuccessful applicant will be considered for other posts within the council. Graduate Internships will be recruited during the summer.
To find out more, visit https://www.east-ayrshire.gov.uk/JobsAndCareers/Employability/Employability.aspx
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