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West Dunbartonshire Council has welcomed 24 new apprentices as part of a £1 million investment fund.
The new recruits will take on jobs across Construction Crafts, Greenspace and Business Administration. They are also the first intake of Modern Apprentices since the investment fund was announced in March.
The scheme will see £250,000 spent on apprentices each year for the next four years, with a particular focus on school leavers.
Councillor Diane Docherty, Convener of Housing and Communities, said: "I'd like to extend a warm welcome to every one of our new apprentices.
"The Council has invested in these people as part of our commitment to building a strong local economy, while improving job opportunities for local people.
"These young people are the future of the Council and we wish them every success."
Councillor Caroline McAllister, Vice Convener of Housing and Communities, added: "It was great to meet the apprentices on their first day and hear about their career aspirations.
"This is a great opportunity for these young people to gain valuable work experience while achieving qualifications and a salary so I hope they enjoy every minute."
Jordan Dick, 21, from Castlehill applied for the scheme after hunting for a job without any success. He will begin an apprenticeship with Greenspace.
He said: "Being chosen to be a Modern Apprentice is great. I'm excited to gain a qualification and I know this will help me in the future. One day I hope to run my own business."
Josh Groden, 20, is beginning a plumbing apprenticeship after previously working as a produce operator.
He said: "I found out about the apprenticeship scheme through my friend's dad, and I'm delighted to be accepted.
"My last job was just money, but this will be a career."
As well as funding Council apprenticeships, the Investment Fund can also be used to support jobs in the private sector.
By encouraging industries including the construction sector to take on modern apprentices, the Council aims to help meet the local skills shortage, enhance the local economy and a have positive impact on West Dunbartonshire communities.
(CM/LM)
