The next batch of apprentices are wanted for Ealing Council as part of its 2015 programme for enthusiastic and motivated people.

The council is looking for applicants, aged 16-24, who have lived or worked in Ealing for the last three years for an opportunity to achieve a nationally recognised level two qualification while gaining valuable work experience.

Apprentices will receive a training allowance starting from £160 per week.

The six vacancies available in this application round are: leaders office apprentice; reception administrator apprentice; regulatory services apprentice (food safety); repairs scheduler apprentice; repairs surveyor apprentice; and children and adults social care complaints apprentice.

David Farrell, 23, who graduated from the scheme last September and is now working as a project support officer in the parks and leisure department, said: “I spent my apprenticeship year with the neighbourhood governance team. I got a lot out of it; it was a great way to get involved in the area and to get to know residents.

"For me, an apprenticeship was better than going to university, because I was able to split my time between real work and study. At the end of the year, instead of leaving with a lot of debt, I had actually earned some money, had a L2 NVQ in business administration and real work experience.”

Pat Hayes, executive director for regeneration and housing, said: “Our apprenticeship programme is an exciting scheme for us, because it gives the council the chance to recruit and nurture local talent."

People have until April 30 to apply. Full eligibility criteria and role profiles are available by going to www.ealing.gov.uk/jobs and searching ‘apprentice’.