University students thriving on apprenticeships at Torridge District Council

Three university students are benefiting from taking part in degree level apprenticeship schemes at Torridge District Council as they start out in their careers in Planning and Building Control.

Jess Wellington and Bethany Hobbs, are both undertaking an Urban Planning degree apprenticeship with Torridge District Council, through the University of West of England, whilst Kian Anstey, is studying a degree in Building Control Surveying, through the University of Wolverhampton.

The students are all coming towards the end of their first year of studies, combining working at the Council's office in Bideford, with studying one day a week with their respective universities.

Bethany Hobbs, Apprentice Planning Officer, explains: "Whilst I assist all teams across the Development Management department, my main role is as a planning officer, dealing with my own caseload. My day-to-day role consists of going out on site, writing delegated reports and pre-application responses; ultimately applying all the knowledge we are learning at university to the job.   So far, I am really enjoying the apprenticeship, although it is challenging at times completing assignments and off-the-job hours, the team make it so enjoyable and support us throughout the whole process."

Jess Wellington, Apprentice Planning Officer said: "My apprenticeship has given me a fantastic opportunity to earn a secure income whilst working towards my degree, it has provided me with a hands-on learning approach which I feel is very beneficial as it will help me to progress further in my career and to obtain my chartership from the Royal Town Planning Institute."

Kian Anstey, Building Control Apprentice said: "A great benefit of the degree apprenticeship is that it allows me to work towards my degree while also gaining first-hand site experience, something that a conventional degree does not offer."

Sarah Ayres, Human Resources and Communications Manager, said:

"We are proud to be able to provide students with first-hand experience at the start of their career journey and provide them with the opportunity to put the lessons they've learned in the classroom into practice in real life situations.  When it comes to taking their next career steps, being able to demonstrate that they have undertaken a significant work experience placement will be invaluable.  The team has been incredibly impressed with the work they are producing and feel very lucky to have this group of students who have a fantastic 'can do' attitude and positive outlook.

Anyone can apply for work experience at the Council, so please don't hesitate to contact the Council's Human Resources team if you are interested in a placement."

Torridge's Human Resources team is always enthusiastic to hear from schools, colleges, or prospective students. Please email: hr@torridge.gov.uk or call 01237 428700 for more information.

June 25