North Devon Council is proud to support National Apprenticeship Week 2026, running from Monday 9 February to Sunday 15 February.

The council has a long and proud history of supporting apprenticeships, helping local people gain valuable skills and industry-recognised qualifications. Today, 30 members of staff are completing apprenticeships and are thriving across a range of council departments.

Many of these individuals have since gone on to complete a second apprenticeship or are currently undertaking additional training to further their development. Alongside this, the council has developed close working relationships with local colleges and universities, ensuring high‑quality learning.

Apprenticeships sit at the heart of the council’s ethos. North Devon Council is committed to being an organisation that grows its own talent and officers are encouraged to explore new skills and pursue professional qualifications to help them thrive.

Councillor David Clayton, Leader of North Devon Council, said: “At North Devon Council we train and develop people as they come in, but also offer and provide ongoing development over their time with us, to allow them to reach their highest potential and to provide excellent services to our customers. I’m very proud that we can help local people achieve and reach their potential and develop long-standing careers.”

Ken Miles, Chief Executive at North Devon Council, said: “I started my career nearly 40 years ago on a youth training scheme and when I joined the council as a junior officer it supported me to qualify as a legal executive and then as a solicitor.  Although that was a long time ago, apprenticeships and supporting staff to gain further qualifications remains a central part of the culture at the council. I am passionate about apprenticeships and careers at North Devon Council. The schemes allow people to carry on learning or even retrain and try a new career.”

The council will be showcasing the achievements of its apprentices on social media, so stay informed by following the council on Facebook by visiting facebook.com/northdevoncouncil.

Visit the council’s website to find out what career opportunities are available now, www.northdevon.gov.uk.