Discover your next step, with apprenticeship opportunities for employees and employers in Durham


Are you excited about the possibility of earning while you learn? Come to New College Durham (NCD) and jump right into a world full of opportunities! If you’re considering taking your learning or career to the next level an apprenticeship could be your perfect match. An apprenticeship is more than just a job; it's a vibrant training experience where you can earn while you learn, all while achieving nationally recognised qualifications.
Ranging from one to four years, apprenticeships cover a wide range of sectors and industries. They are designed in partnership with employers to ensure you acquire the essential skills needed to thrive in your chosen profession.
Last year, one of our current students Benjamin Urwin won the prestigious Professional Services Apprentice of the Year award. After successfully completing his Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) Level 3 Assistant Accountant Apprenticeship here at New College Durham we are delighted he has stayed with us to further his studies having started his Level 4!
Since starting in the role, he has received extremely positive feedback. Sandra Chwaszczc, Principal Accountant at Durham County Council told us just how well Ben is progressing and shows just how much experience he is gaining from the role:
“Ben has worked at Durham County Council for the past three years, where his first role was as an apprentice supporting Regeneration, Economy, and Growth service area. The role allowed Ben to develop skills which gave him a solid foundation for a career in accounting. These included communication with a wide range of stakeholders, prioritising tasks, managing workload, using various financial and IT systems, completing reconciliations, preparing grant returns and budgetary control. Ben has received excellent feedback from his previous managers, who praised his dedication, high quality of work and outstanding attitude.”
When asked about the support he received at New College Durham, Ben said, “The support I have received from the staff at NCD has been outstanding. They are always available to support your needs, encourage you to be yourself and push you to reach your full potential. The facilities at NCD are superb, creating the perfect environment for learning and personal growth.”
With an apprenticeship you get paid a salary for working in a real job with an employer; your employer pays your tuition fees and, as you are earning a wage, you can wave goodbye to student loans.
Ben added, “Choosing to do an apprenticeship has been one of the best decisions I've made, I would highly recommend it to anyone considering this path. Throughout my apprenticeship I have gained crucial knowledge from experienced professionals in the workplace, insights, and skills that I will take with me throughout my career. This, alongside the opportunity to work towards an industry-recognised qualification has been essential to my professional and personal development.”
To find out more about apprenticeships, visit https://www.newcollegedurham.ac.uk/apprenticeships
If you would be interested in hiring an apprentice for your business, NCD can help. Visit our apprenticeships section https://www.newcollegedurham.ac.uk/employers/apprenticeships-employers