Westmorland and Furness Council is recruiting a new cohort of apprentices, offering exciting opportunities for people to kickstart their careers in local government.
A wide range of roles are available in accountancy, adult social care, business administration, vehicle maintenance, project management, highways and civil engineering. Apprenticeships are offered at various levels, providing opportunities for people at different stages of their career journey.
Applications are open now and close at midnight on Sunday 22 March 2026. Candidates can apply online at careers.westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk/apprenticeships.
The launch of these opportunities marks the start of National Careers Week (2–7 March) and coincides with Cumbria Careers Day on Wednesday 4 March, a county wide celebration showcasing the wide range of career pathways available locally.
Many of the council’s apprentices go on to secure permanent employment and build long-term, rewarding careers in local government. Former project management apprentice Max Townley is among those who have successfully progressed into a full time role.
Max said:
“Doing my apprenticeship gave me the chance to learn new skills, get real experience and work with a really supportive team. It’s what helped me secure the role I have now, and I’d definitely recommend an apprenticeship with the council to anyone thinking about it.”
To help people explore their options, the council will be hosting three drop-in events on Wednesday 4 March, from 2pm to 6pm, at the following locations:
- Barrow Leisure Centre, Greengate St, Barrow-in-Furness, LA13 9DT
- Kendal Leisure Centre, Burton Road, Kendal, LA9 7HX
- Penrith Leisure Centre, Southend Road, Penrith, CA11 8JH
Attendees can find out more about current opportunities, receive careers guidance and get support with their applications. Further details are available at careers.westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk/apprenticeships.
The council’s dedicated Apprenticeship Team is also on hand to answer questions from prospective apprentices, as well as parents and carers. They can be contacted on 01539 713434 or by email at apprentice@westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk.
Councillor Janet Battye, Westmorland and Furness Council’s Cabinet Member for Children's Services, Education and Skills, said:
“Apprenticeships offer a really good way to earn while you learn, and many of our apprentices go on to secure permanent roles and further training. Since becoming a new council in April 2023, we’ve already welcomed over 100 apprentices, almost all of whom are from the local area.”
“Our mission is to ensure that people of all ages are equipped with the skills and support they need to pursue the life they want and access meaningful local employment opportunities. We want to help everyone unlock their potential – whether they are just starting out or looking to advance their career, we have something for everyone."
Prospective applicants are encouraged to follow @wandf.apprenticeships on Instagram for behind-the-scenes content, top tips and inspiring success stories.
