Council traineeships on display

Council staff with NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro at the careers expo.

Penrith City Council in New South Wales recently exhibited its successful traineeship program at the Skills and Thrills Careers Showcase.

The expo encourages students to undertake vocational education and training (VET) as an entry to a successful career path.

Council offers a large number of traineeship positions each year, which has increased since starting the program in 2000.

From six trainees in the inaugural year, available positions have grown to over 50 in 2017.

Penrith Mayor John Thain said the traineeships offer a great opportunity to get a glimpse of what employment in local government is like, and to work in a supportive organisation while studying a qualification.

“In 2017 over 50 trainees were appointed across IT, Child Care and Business Administration,” Mayor Thain said.

“Trainees work closely with our team of experienced staff to provide a high level of service to the Penrith community.”

Traineeships are available to school-leavers (completing their HSC) or mature age applicants (over the age of 18).

Council also offers ‘Professional Specialist’ traineeships to applicants studying at University – these opportunities are advertised on Council’s website as they become available.

A number of trainees go on to secure employment with Council after their traineeship, many of who are still with Council today.
Applications will open in October for the 2018 intake.