Interested in apprenticeships at Solihull Council? On this page, you can read a few of our many apprentice success stories
Discover what our apprentices think about working for us, learning new skills and being supported to take on new qualifications, challenges and opportunities.
Get in touch
To find out more about apprenticeships, please get in touch by:
- email at emp-services@solihull.gov.uk
- calling 0121 704 6420 or 0121 704 8436
Anisha
Initially going to university seemed the best route to reach my desired profession, however after researching an accounting apprenticeship the benefits far outweighed those of going to university. The biggest advantage is gaining valuable practical experience and simultaneously gaining an AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) qualification.
I initially undertook a week’s work experience with the Finance team at Solihull Council, whilst I was still at sixth form and enjoyed the experience.
I then started looking at apprenticeships and after successfully applying for an apprenticeship, I joined the Council as an AAT Apprentice. Coming straight from sixth form into a work environment seemed quite daunting, however the team made me feel extremely welcome. I’ve had the opportunity to work within several different teams and apply the academic content learnt at college to a variety of tasks. I’ve now started a new role as an Accounting Technician and throughout the whole experience, my knowledge and understanding of accountancy has vastly developed. I started my initial apprenticeship at level 2 and have subsequently taken and passed level 2, level 3 and level 4 in accounting.
I have just started my level 7 to become a fully qualified accountant, and this has all been undertaken whilst working and earning.
I have really enjoyed my time at Solihull Council and hope I get the opportunity to gain further qualifications!
Kiera
I completed my apprenticeship in Level 3 Business Administration in May 2024. My course was led by Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce and had an initial duration of 18 months which I was able to complete in 15. I have had an overwhelming amount of support from my manager and colleagues which helped me progress personally and professionally. I am now employed as an administrator at Solihull Council as a result of completing my apprenticeship, which is a massive accomplishment.
The Council are very determined to grow their own and by the culture they adopt it allows younger people (like me) to experience a workforce which varies in ages, attitudes, and skills. I think apprenticeships are the way forward as they offer people a chance to gain qualifications and experience in a work organisation while getting paid.
Kieran
I am currently studying for The Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) qualification via the apprenticeship route. After completing my Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) qualification, I decided to continue my development and take the next step towards becoming a fully qualified accountant. As I was already working for the Council, I discussed with my manager about undertaking the CIPFA qualification, and we were able to quickly get me signed up in time for the next semester start date.
Completing this qualification via the apprenticeship route has been incredibly valuable as I am able to link together my day-to-day work with what I’m learning in the course, as well as developing my skills and behaviours. While it has been challenging, the support of my manager and the apprenticeship team has been fantastic and enabled me to pass my exams and progress through the course.
I would recommend enquiring about completing an apprenticeship, as you can develop your skills and knowledge whilst continuing to gain experience in your job. With Solihull Council behind you providing a supportive and encouraging environment, an apprenticeship is a great opportunity to take up.
Jennifer
I have recently completed my apprenticeship in Level 4 Commercial Procurement and Supply Training. My experience has been very positive at the Council and taking the apprenticeship course led by Solihull College.
I have been incredibly welcomed and encouraged as a Procurement Apprentice. It has at times been very challenging, but also certainly fulfilling. A huge benefit of the apprenticeship course is the ability to work with lots of people from a range of departments who hold different experiences in their profession. This has supported my development, enhancing my knowledge and skills required to progress further in my career.
I have seen a big confidence boost in myself which continues to grow progressing into my new role as an assistant category manager. Solihull Council has a great reputation in growing their own through apprentices, offering support, flexibility and career progression. I was placed in a secondment category manager position in June 2023 and made permanent in June 2024.
Jordan
I have been with the Council since October 2021, when I started working towards a level 3 business administrator qualification. Before I started, I did have trepidations about being an apprentice as we have all heard the stories of apprentices getting the ‘worst’ jobs and so on. These trepidations were very swiftly lifted on my very first day, I was introduced to the team and greeted like I had been there for months which allowed me to ask questions without fear.
I completed my qualification within the same team which was great as I find the Economy and Infrastructure Directorate very interesting. I enjoy the way the Council runs its apprenticeships; you get the time you need to understand things so you don’t feel rushed or overwhelmed. Support is on offer if you need it and the team are very open and welcoming so you don’t struggle in silence.
I am 25 so I have experience in quite a few jobs, but I can say this apprenticeship is the best opportunity I have ever done as I see this as the start of my career. I have never been so motivated to get up in the morning as every new day brings a new challenge. I completed my Business Admin level 3 qualification and then obtained a full time permanent position within the team.
As I want to progress in my career, I am now enrolling to continue my studies and undertake a level 4 Associate Project Manager apprenticeship again with the full support of my team and line manager.
Maya
I have recently successfully completed my Level 4 Apprenticeship with the IRRV in Local Taxation, Revenues and Welfare Benefits and have become a practitioner in Revenues after 18 months of studying.
Coming in fresh to this apprenticeship and job role was extremely daunting at first as I had no prior academic background in revenues and was learning both roles from scratch. I made the decision to pursue this avenue after completing my Social Justice degree and looking for a career change. In hindsight, I’m glad I made that decision as I was able to secure a permanent position within the Income Billing Team halfway through my apprenticeship.
Working with the institute and my tutor was an incredibly positive experience as they gave me the support I needed to continue when there were challenges. I am grateful to my mentor and manager for listening to me and being flexible - this was integral to my success, along with all my colleagues at Solihull Council who offered advice and guidance. This experience has taught me many things, such as developing my communication and problem-solving skills, learning the legislation behind the practical side of the job, and adapting to the customer’s needs.
In the end, my knowledge in Council Tax and Business Rates and ability to perform my job has greatly improved. I now feel a lot more confident from when I first started. I look forward to the journey ahead of me and the possibilities this apprenticeship could lead to.
Sophie
I recently completed my apprenticeship as a level 4 counter fraud investigator with Solihull Council, using Intelligencia Training Provider.
I had no previous knowledge or experience of counter fraud investigations - however, with the help of the training provider and my welcoming colleagues, my skills and understanding of investigations has developed immensely. I passed my apprenticeship with a distinction which is a recognition of the training I received and the supportive team in which I worked. I have advanced my knowledge by learning many different styles and techniques of investigating through the wide experience and skillset of the team that I worked within.
My team have supported me and allowed me to develop and become independent in conducting my own investigations in my current role after finishing my apprenticeship, helping me accelerate in this career. Solihull Council have a great reputation for apprenticeships and I have now secured a permanent position as a counter fraud officer.