Southend on Sea City Council is a Unitary local authority, providing vital services to meet the needs of the local community. We employ around 1,800 staff who are working alongside our partners and local communities to deliver the city vision and make lives better for the people of Southend.

Working for Southend on Sea City Council offers a challenging and rewarding career in local government within a collaborative and innovate environment, with the benefit of flexible working practices to support a positive work life balance. As a Unitary Authority we are responsible for all local government functions ranging from social services, transport, public health and parks through to planning, trading standards, community safety and education, so we offer a wide range of career opportunities. The diversity of our economy and communities and investment in a number of exciting regeneration projects makes our Council a great place to work, learn and make a difference.

Southend-on-Sea City Council have an exciting opportunity to join Focal Point Gallery as a Creative Learning Apprentice in an 18-month fixed term contract.

This role supports the development of Focal Point Gallery’s wide and varied learning and engagement work with the local communities, to promote creative arts and encourage life-long learning.

The post holder will support learning programme development, including working on family events, regular art club activities, outreach work, activity packs, school workshops, community groups and annual Digifest. The post holder will work with key stakeholders and partners to open opportunities to children and young people from a diverse background, to follow a creative pathway, and to promote FPG’s work for the benefit of local communities.

Focal Point Gallery is a small team, and as such the apprentice will have the opportunity to be involved in a broad range of projects, building skills contributing to understanding what it means to run a small arts organisation.

To be shortlisted for this position, you must include a statement showing your passion for contemporary visual arts.

You must hold Maths and English GCSEs and be able to manual handle event equipment.

Be friendly and approachable to members of the public, particularly those that face boundaries when accessing the arts. Be organised and flexible to ensure a smooth running of the learning programme, keep on top of administration and rise to the challenges of the role.

When joining the council, you can enjoy a range of benefits including: 25 days annual leave, flexible working and excellent training and development opportunities. They are committed to ensuring that you are supported in this varied and challenging role with the appropriate level of training. A full list of benefits provided by Southend Council can be viewed on the "Why Work For Us?" tab.

If you are interested in this role, please click 'apply online' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV. 

If you would like a copy the Job Description, please click here

If you are wanting further information that isn't in the JD, please contact Nathalie Nathalie.s@hays.com

Please note: Applications for this vacancy may close prior to the date advertised above so you are advised to apply as soon as you are able to

The Council is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications, regardless of race, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, age or religion or belief.