Apprentice Communications Officer

Dover District Council; Dover; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in Dover is seeking a Communications Apprentice to join their team. This role offers a hands-on opportunity to learn about public sector communications while gaining a nationally recognized qualification. Ideal candidates will have a keen interest in design, media, or public relations and possess strong communication skills. The position includes creating multimedia content and supporting public engagement initiatives, all within a supportive work environment.

Benefits

Benenden Healthcare Membership

Local government pension scheme

Generous annual leave

Discount scheme at local leisure centre

On-site parking

Cycle2Work scheme

Qualifications

• Enthusiasm and willingness to learn are essential.
• Basic knowledge of design software is preferred.
• Interest in design, media, or public relations is important.

Responsibilities

• Create graphics, videos, and multimedia content.
• Write and support production of press releases and newsletters.
• Monitor media coverage and assist with internal communications.
• Support public campaigns and community engagement initiatives.

Skills

Creative design

Strong written communication

Verbal communication skills

Basic understanding of social media

Attention to detail

Proactive attitude

Education

GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Maths

Tools

Design software

Job description

Are you a creative thinker with a passion for communication, creative design and digital media?

Join our Communications Team as an apprentice and help shape how we engage with our residents, businesses, and visitors. This is a hands-on opportunity to learn the ropes of public sector communications while gaining a nationally recognised qualification.

Working in local government means making a real difference in your community. You’ll be part of a friendly, forward-thinking team that values innovation, inclusion, and public service.

Dover District Council has an exciting agenda to deliver first class public services, putting our residents at the heart of everything we do. From building new, affordable homes to exciting regeneration schemes. A career with Dover District Council offers you the opportunity to excel.

As an employer, Dover District Council is proud to provide a supportive, friendly, diverse and flexible working environment in which our employees can thrive. We have a team of enthusiastic employees, delivering services they are passionate about.

The Role & Responsibilities:

You’ll work alongside experienced professionals to develop skills in:

• Creating graphics, videos, and other multimedia content
• Writing copy and supporting the team with production of writing press releases, newsletters, and social media content
• Supporting public campaigns and community engagement initiatives
• Monitoring media coverage and public feedback
• Assisting with internal communications and staff updates
• Assisting with photo coverage of events
• Supporting the design and production of print communications
• To undertake the structured training required of the apprenticeship.

Who We Are Looking For

We’re not expecting you to know everything—just bring your enthusiasm and willingness to learn. The successful applicant will need:

• A keen interest in design, media, communications, or public relations
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Basic understanding of social media platforms
• A proactive attitude and attention to detail
• GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Maths
• Basic knowledge of design software

What Can We Offer?

We provide a friendly and supportive environment for you to excel in. We also offer several employee benefits, subject to eligibility criteria, such as:

• Benenden Healthcare Membership and Employee Assistance Program
• Opt-in Local government pension scheme with the opportunity for staff to make advanced, voluntary contributions (AVCs) to top up their pension
• Generous annual leave provision
• Discount scheme including reduced membership rates at the local leisure centre
• On-site parking
• Cycle2Work scheme

The quality of your application will be considered as part of the recruitment process.

If you would like a further discussion about the post then please contact Mike Gosling, Communications Manager.