We've increased pay for apprentices by 30% to the London Living Wage
The announcement was made during National Apprenticeship Week, which runs from 3–7 February, and celebrates the impact of apprenticeships on individuals, employers and the economy.
Councillor Joe Dromey, Cabinet Member for Jobs and Skills, said: ‘We are committed to building an economy that works for the many, and apprenticeships are a vital part of this. They offer the opportunity to earn while you learn, to gain experience and skills, and to build a career. That’s why we have committed to expanding the Mayor’s Apprenticeship Programme, by helping 250 people into apprenticeships by 2022.
‘We were the first Living Wage accredited council in the country, and we are absolutely delighted to now extend the Living Wage to all of our apprentices. It is a recognition of their huge commitment, and the difference that they make to the organisation.’
The Mayor’s Apprenticeship Programme, which was created by Lewisham Council in 2009, helps local residents into apprenticeships with the council and its partners. To date, the successful scheme has helped 524 local people to gain apprenticeships, with 82% of them going on to further employment or training after their apprenticeship.
Last September, Damani Mosely, became the 500th apprentice of the programme, after securing an admin apprenticeship at Dalmain Primary School in Forest Hill.
Damani said: ‘When I first applied for my apprenticeship I didn’t expect the process to be as quick as it was and in a field that I was interested in. I really like the setup of an apprenticeship, with a job placement and studying at college – it really suits me.
‘I’m still unsure what role I would like to take in the future but I’m grateful that I have this apprenticeship where I can learn the job role and find out what my dream career could be.’
This National Apprenticeship Week, the Council will invite former and current apprentices to celebrate their achievements with Damien Egan, Mayor of Lewisham, on Tuesday 4 February.
Damien will visit a plumbing apprentice employed by Phoenix Community Housing on Wednesday 5 February.