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Apprentices Welcomed to Council’s Grounds Team for the First Time

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Following a successful external recruitment process, Monmouthshire County Council has welcomed the first apprentices to its Grounds and Cleansing team.

The three local apprentices will be combining study at Bridgend College’s Pencoed Campus with workplace learning over the next two years.

Councillor Sara Jones, Monmouthshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy, said:

“The opportunity to help these apprentices pursue their ambitions is one that the council has really embraced. We have so many skilled people working within the council well placed to share their knowledge with those just starting out on their career. The apprenctices, Sharnie O’Shea, Morgan Haines and Abigail Bowditch, will be supported on their learning journey by mentors with many years’ experience. It’s already clear that Abigail, Sharnie and Morgan have a huge amount to offer and are committed to their new role.”

Morgan Haines, 20, has been on the scheme for four weeks and said:

“An office job wasn’t for me, I have always been an outdoors person. I’m already loving the job, I’m enjoying every aspect of it and the fact we are also studying for a work based Horticulture Level 2 qualification. We can go on to work towards further qualifications too.”

Two months into her apprenticeship, 22-year-old Abigail Bowditch said:

“I didn’t have much experience before starting the apprenticeship, but I am already seeing how I am progressing and really enjoying it. The chance to learn things while you have got a job is really important, it gives a sense of security.”

Working as a Senior Grounds Maintenance Operative for Monmouthshire County Council, Nigel Reece has more than 26 years’ experience to share:

“The scheme offers a rare chance to learn a wide range of skills that cover seasonal-based work, so no two days are ever the same. I’ve been outdoors all my life and helping to guide our apprentices through their training, as a mentor, is very rewarding.”

The apprentices and the rest of the Grounds and Cleansing team are currently out and about trimming hedges and cutting grass across the county in preparation for the arrival of autumn, when their work will move on to other seasonal tasks.

For information about job opportunities within Monmouthshire County Council visit: https://www.monmouthshire.gov.uk/jobs-employment/

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