About our apprenticeships

On this page

• What is an apprenticeship?
• Types of apprenticeships
• How to apply
• Frequently asked questions

What is an apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a training programme where you can combine real work with training and study, which will lead to a nationally recognised qualification. As an apprentice, you can expect to gain skills, knowledge and experience in a skilled role, as well as a qualification that helps to kickstart your career. The only requirements for applicants are that they are over 16 years of age, and not currently in full-time education or work.

Types of apprenticeships

Reading Borough Council offers lots of different apprenticeships. From mid-level to higher education level, depending on which one you choose, they could last from one to five years.

Whether you’re finishing school or thinking about changing jobs, our apprenticeships are available in many areas of the council.

Examples of apprenticeships we’ve offered include:

• Business administration – learn skills such as organising data, writing emails, using office tools and computers.
• Customer service – learn ways to communicate well and help local residents with requests.
• Finance and accounting – learn how to use financial software, understand budgets and manage money.
• Regulatory services – this role includes tasks such as checking businesses and properties are following the correct rules and learning about laws.
• Building Control – making sure buildings are safe and following regulations.
• Surveying – learn to use survey equipment, collect data and prepare reports.
• Social care (Age 18+ only) – in this role you will provide care and support to vulnerable people.
• Early years – learn about child development and well-being, help them to learn and develop new skills.
• Trades – assist experts with council home repairs and installations in jobs such as plumbing, electrical work or carpentry.

When you join the council, you’ll be part of Team Reading, where you’ll learn from experts and receive lots of support. You can expect a mix of on-the-job training and computer studies, and you’ll get a qualification when you finish – all whilst earning money!

After finishing their training, Emma and Levi both started working for the council full-time. Watch the two videos below to hear their stories.

Apprenticeships for current employees

Apprenticeships are also available to our employees. It offers our team the opportunity to upskill and advance their career whilst in full-time employment. Dependant on which apprenticeship is chosen, some time is spent each week focusing on studying, within regular working hours. In the video below, Roseline Fernandes shares her recent apprenticeship experience with us.

How to apply

Applying for an apprenticeship is easy. Simply browse current vacancies and apply for apprenticeships on our careers website by uploading your CV or completing a form. All applicants must meet the following requirements:

• you must be over the age of 16
• you are not in full-time education or work
• you must have lived in the UK or EEA for the last three years
• you are not already involved in another government funded programme
• you do not have a qualification that overlaps with your chosen apprenticeship

Note: some apprenticeships may require English and Maths GCSEs. If so, it will be stated in the job description. 

Frequently Asked Questions