We support apprentices with their development for job roles, providing development opportunities for existing staff and recruiting new apprentices into some vacant roles.
An apprenticeship combines studying alongside practical experience in the workplace. It is a way for individuals to earn while they learn, gaining valuable skills and knowledge in a specific job role.
At Cambridge City Council, newly recruited externally appointed apprentices will be appointed to permanent roles wherever possible and will be paid a minimum of the Real Living Wage, or higher depending on the grading for the associated role.
We currently have apprentices working across the organisation at all levels. Examples of some of the apprenticeships being undertaken include:
- Payroll Administrator
- Plumbing and Domestic Heating Technician
- Building Control Surveyor
- Environmental Health Practitioner
- Accountancy
- HR Consultant/Partner
These programs are designed to help individuals develop their careers by providing both practical training and academic learning opportunities.
You can find our current available roles, including any apprenticeship opportunities, listed on our careers portal.
Each job advert links to full information about the role and an online application form.
Apprenticeship advantages
Earn and learn at the same time
Whether you are seeking employment or you are currently employed, taking part in an apprenticeship means that you can learn new skills at work and be paid to do it.
Develop desirable skills and advance your career
You will have the opportunity to build on your existing knowledge or learn new transferrable skills which employers always look for.
People who have completed an apprenticeship are 15% more likely to be hired or promoted by employers than those with other qualifications.
Gain a nationally recognised qualification
By completing an apprenticeship you will gain a work-based, nationally recognised qualification which you can take with you anywhere you go.
Get a head start on work experience
You will start building up relevant work experience as soon as you start your apprenticeship, meaning you can develop your skills quickly and put anything you learn back into your work.
Flexibility
Apprenticeships can be done at any time and at any age. The apprenticeship will work around you and you will receive 20% off the job (paid) training a week to work on your qualification.
Case studies
These case studies feature a selection of our current and recent apprentices.
Angela Pelwecka - Payroll and Pension apprentice
I am a Payroll and Pension administrator apprentice here at Cambridge City Council.
I’m currently undertaking a Level 3 Payroll administrator apprenticeship with my training provider, MBKB.
My job role involves supporting the administration and processing of payroll, such as processing new starters, overtime, expenses, sickness, maintaining spreadsheets and recording systems for employees at Cambridge City Council and South Cambridgeshire District Council.
I joined the council in March 2024 after deciding to leave Sixth Form, as I wanted to explore a new career path and preferred a work-based learning environment.
I was interested in pursuing an apprenticeship as I wanted to gain practical job experience while continuing my studies. This role particularly appealed to me, as payroll involves extensive work with data, which aligns with my interests and future career aspirations. Additionally, I was keen on improving skills such as analytical thinking and communication skills which are essential in this field.
During my apprenticeship, I have learnt a lot of new skills related to the systems we use to pay employees, and the processes involved, ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time.
As this is my first job, this apprenticeship has helped me learn and develop my soft skills, such as time management, problem solving and attention to detail, which are all valuable and transferable skills that will prepare me for the next steps in my career.
I would recommend an apprenticeship to anyone, regardless of where they are in their career, as it provides an opportunity to learn and develop a wide range of skills and gain industry experience, while earning a qualification without being in student debt.
Sammyjo McEvoy - Area Building Control Surveyor
I completed a level three built environment construction course in 2006/07, and shortly after chose to have and raise a family. Once they appeared more settled at school I decided to return to my career path.
When I saw the opportunity to achieve this I jumped at the chance. I joined 3C Building Control in 2021 as an Area Building Control Surveyor and began completing an apprenticeship with Wolverhampton University.
This has given me the opportunity to learn and fill any gaps in my knowledge. I have been able to expand my skills and learning patterns.
It has been very challenging with the changes in the construction industry and, particularly in Building Control, with the new and amended legislation and regime under the new regulator.
I have overcome this with the support of my team at work and family at home. I have pushed myself to become a Class 2A Registered Building Inspector and I am in my final year completing the BSc (Hons) Building Control Degree. As daunting as it may sound, I welcome my dissertation and my End Point Assessment, which concludes with an interview for chartered membership to CABE and CIOB.
I feel proud of what I have been able to achieve, with the support of my team and the wider team, and I am incredibly proud to be able to inspire other women of all ages into the construction industry and apprenticeships.
