A group of Wiltshire teenagers have boosted their career prospects after taking part in a new traineeship placement at Wiltshire Council.

Five young people aged 16 – 18 joined the scheme in March this year, learning key skills and working in departments in the council. Now just a few months on, all five have plans in place to ensure their hard work will set them on the road to future careers, Leader of Wiltshire Council Jane Scott, met with the trainees at the start of the placement in March and handed them a certificate for completing the programme.

She said: “I saw these young people at the start of the programme and I’m delighted to meet them again now and see how much they have gained from being part of this programme and how this can help their future career prospects.

“We want every young person to improve their attainment and skills and this programme has given these young people the skills they need to help them achieve their full potential.”

As part of the programme the young people started building their skills and confidence in various departments including IT, facilities management and development and learning. They had a refresher course in maths, IT and English before they spent four months in the council workplace.

Josh Burton of Chippenham worked in customer services, fielding calls on waste and highways and dealing with calls during the European Election. He said he was made to feel part of the team and going into work was enjoyable even when busy.

He now has a job working in parking services at the council.

He said: “I feel the experience of the traineeship has given me independence, responsibility and team working skills. I have learnt so much about everyday life and the working environment.

“It has been an eye opener to what the real world is. I have put every bit of energy into making it the best experience I can and it has certainly paid off.

“I have met some amazing people along the way including Kathleen Parkin and Sian Lynch who have taught me reality.

“The entire customer service team have been great and I couldn’t have come this far and got a job without them.”

Charlotte Wilson, of Calne, completed her work placement with the Revenues and Benefits team in Chipp-enham.

She is joining the council’s bank employment pool and is applying for jobs and looking for employment and apprenticeship opportunities both in and outside of the council.

The scheme is part of a new initiative by the Skills Funding Agency to help young people be work ready.