Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council’s apprenticeship scheme has earned regional recognition.

The Council recruited 40 new apprentices across a range of services last year, receiving more than 900 applications for the positions.

By the end of 2019 more than 100 Council employees were on an apprentice contract or undertaking an apprenticeship qualification.

As a result, the council has been named runner up for Overall Employer of the Year at Northern Skills Group Apprenticeship Awards 2020 for the Tees Valley and North Yorkshire region.

Council leader, Councillor Bob Cook, said: “I started out as an apprentice myself many years ago – it provided absolutely vital on the job experience and helped massively as I progressed through the world of work.

“We have a great track record of providing apprenticeships to people from all backgrounds with all levels of experience and to be runner up for this award is testament to the work we’re doing.

“The apprentices we took on last year have done brilliantly so far. There was huge demand when we advertised the roles, with 599 different applicants!

“We’ll be taking on more apprentices this year and expect similar demand. Details will be announced in the coming months.”

The Council plans to recruit another group of apprentices in May 2020, for employment to start in September 2020.

All of these apprentices will be paid at or above the national minimum wage, which is higher than the standard rate of pay for apprenticeships.