Purpose

The IT Service has historically had an entry level post of Trainee IT Officer (Grade D) and this has provided a useful stepping stone for local people with some form of IT qualification. Promotion within the IT Service has been commonplace for the holder of this post. It has been noted that applicants to this post often require formal training or experience in an IT environment and therefore, it can be difficult for candidates, such as care experienced or other local people, with less training or experience to take their first step on the IT ladder.

The idea of creating the IT Apprentice post (Grade B) is to provide an easier route for local candidates with less training and/or experience to gain the required experience and training. The post can be funded from existing resources.  

Decision

To create one new fixed term apprentice post in the IT Service at Grade B.

Alternative options considered

Without the posts there will continue to be a cohort of applicants who do not have the required training or experience to commence a career within the IT sector.