An apprenticeship gives you a great introduction to working life, or a chance to try something different, and can lead directly into a fulfilling career. Apprentices earn while they learn, avoiding student debt and tuition fees.
An apprenticeship includes:
- a paid work placement with on-the-job learning.
- taking part in training courses to support with the development of the placement.
- a recognised professional qualification that could range from Level 2 -7 which is equivalent to GCSE through to Degree and Masters level.
Search for current apprentice vacancies
Why Merton?
Merton employees contribute to the local community whilst working in a dynamic and flexible environment. Whatever your background, Merton provides the opportunity not only to develop your career, but also to make a difference in people's lives. With many services to provide, there is a rich variety of careers ranging from social care and public health to planning, regeneration, environmental health, IT, communications, human resources and much more.
We are an equal opportunity employer and our policies and practices ensure that no person will be discriminated against for reasons of race, gender, disability, sexual orientation, religion or belief, age, gender reassignment, or marriage and civil partnership. This commitment to equality of opportunity and respect for diversity extends not only to employees, but also to our service users and community partners.
Popular courses
We offer a wide range of apprenticeship qualifications at different levels that are linked to the job role of the apprentice. Our more popular apprenticeships include:
- Business Administration
- Lead Adult Care Worker
- HR Support
- Team Leader/Supervisor
- Digital Marketer
- Infrastructure Technician
- Facilities Management
- Paralegal
- Solicitor
- Accounting
Our apprentice offer
There are four types of apprenticeship you can apply for depending on your current skills, qualifications and the nature of the role.
- Intermediate - equivalent to five GCSE passes.
- Advanced - equivalent to 2 A Level passes.
- Higher - equivalent to a foundation degree.
- Degree - equivalent to a bachelors or masters degree.
What to expect
There are many benefits to being an apprentice at Merton which extend beyond learning and development opportunities and on-the-job training. As an apprentice at Merton you will receive a salary paid at London’s Living Wage.
In addition, all apprentices will receive 26 days' annual leave plus 8 bank holiday days, local government pension, and access to retail and leisure discounts in the local area.
As an apprentice you are eligible for the NUS Apprentice Extra discount card which can be used in-store and online.
Support
All of our apprentices receive an induction, regular one-to-one meetings, appraisals, development opportunities within the role, and support from their tutors and assessors to successfully complete their apprenticeship. Towards the end of the apprenticeship we offer apprentices support with interview skills, CV and job application writing in order to further their careers.
Meet our apprentices
Ella
I began working for Merton Council almost 6 years ago as an apprentice, and I now work as the Contracts Officer within the Human Resources team. When I started working for Merton I was just 17 years old, and during my time as an apprentice I gained a Level 3 qualification in Business Administration. Alongside this, I also gained a huge amount of experience of what it’s really like in a working environment, and learned so many transferrable skills that I am now using in my current role, and will continue to use for my whole working life. Merton is a welcoming and supportive place to work, and I would highly recommend the apprenticeship scheme to anyone who is interested in starting off their career.
Liam
In 2014 I undertook a Business Administration Apprenticeship with Merton’s Facilities Management Team. At the time I was looking to start a meaningful career after leaving an unfulfilling job in retail. During my time as an apprentice, I learned many valuable transferable skills whilst working towards a qualification, and built lasting relationships with colleagues who supported my learning.
After completing the NVQ I was approached by the Safety Services team about an opportunity to interview for a health and safety/emergency planning adviser role on a career grade post and am now well underway with working on a degree-level qualification whilst continuing to learn through work.