Apprentice FAQs

Frequently asked questions about apprenticeships.

An Apprenticeship is a real job with a development programme attached – a programme which includes a combination of study towards recognised qualifications, on-the-job learning, skills practice and relevant workplace experience with colleagues. Together, these help you to build valuable skills and knowledge and apply them in a real work setting.

Here is a guide on apprenticeships.

Real jobs, fair pay, great prospects

Our benefits give you even more reasons to apply for an Ipswich Borough Council apprenticeship.
Real jobs: An apprenticeship with IBC is a real job, with a contract of employment and apprenticeship training - this is so much more than just a placement.
Choice: We offer a diverse range of Apprenticeships with both practical and professional programmes on offer.
Fair pay: We pay our apprentices 140% of the National Apprenticeship wage in the first year, and at least this amount or more in subsequent years, depending on your age and apprenticeship term. This means that our Apprentices receive 40% more on payday than the nationally-agreed rate for Apprentice pay
‘Large organisation’ experience: An Ipswich Borough Council apprenticeship means working within a large, multi-functional business, giving you greater exposure to a wide range of customers and professions - providing apprentices with great experiences, which can then be referenced on your CV.
Career links: Each Ipswich Borough Council apprenticeship is built into part of our business, so your programme and experience will link well to the career area you want to work in.
Support: We provide dedicated support from a mentor as part of the Apprentice Development Programme, to help you succeed.
Great prospects: Ipswich Borough Council apprentices can apply for suitable vacancies across the organisation, many past apprentices are still working for us!
Discounts and preferential rates: Our apprentices are eligible to Local government offers and benefits - the scheme features discounts and deals on national attractions, entertainment, days out, theme parks, holidays, insurance and many national retailers.

It is a programme of development opportunities which enhance your experience and skills, including:

Communication skills
Teamworking
Presentation Skills
Problem Solving and Decision Making
Enrichment activities – guest speakers, off-site visits, team-building events, etc.

Build the future - Take your next career step by applying for an apprenticeship at Ipswich Borough Council www.ipswich.gov.uk/jobs

These are many careers that could begin with an Ipswich Borough Council apprenticeship. Those currently available are promoted with all Ipswich Borough Council jobs at: Home - Ambition Ipswich

You have a real job, and get paid whilst you learn
As well as gaining a recognised qualification, you will improve your transferable skills and build confidence in your abilities.
You will be learning alongside experienced colleagues and be part of the team in a real work environment
As an alternative to college or university, an apprenticeship is a rounded experience, where you get to apply your learning in the workplace as part of the programme.
It's an ideal stepping-stone to a career – if you don’t yet have a career path in mind, an IBC Apprenticeship is a great introduction to the world of work, with wide a range of professions and crafts to discover in one organisation.
There is plenty of support to help you succeed- managers, colleagues and training providers are happy to lend a hand.
You can also take advantage of the Ipswich Borough Council Apprentice Development Programme to enhance your learning.

Yes, and in more ways that you might expect:

IBC Apprentices are paid 140% of the National Apprenticeship Wage in the first year (and at least that if there is a second year).

We also offer a range of benefits, including access to free swimming, a range of travel and parking discounts, and free tea and coffee making facilities.

No student fees: unlike a University course or unfunded College course, an Apprenticeship is fully funded, so you do not have to worry about repaying a loan at the end of your programme.

Current apprenticeship vacancies can be found on our website at Home - Ambition Ipswich

Or, you can subscribe to receive Ipswich Borough Council weekly job alerts at: Sign up for job alerts | Ipswich Borough Council