Southampton City Council, Public Health - Trainee Public Health Practitioner
Are you passionate about improving health and wellbeing, reducing inequalities, and making a meaningful difference to local communities?
This is an exciting opportunity to join us as a Public Health Trainee, and no prior public health experience is required. Over the course of a three-year apprenticeship programme you will be supported to work on a range of projects, develop practical skills, and play a key role in improving the health of Southampton residents and reducing inequalities in health outcomes.
Alongside your work with the City Council you will study for a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Public Health from the University of the West of England, Bristol, and be eligible to apply for UKPHR Public Health Practitioner registration.
You will spend:
* 1 day a week undertaking university study (fully online)
* 4 days per week working in the Public Health Team, alongside experienced colleagues who will support your development
This is a role with hybrid working conditions, a mix of working from home and working in our Civic Centre offices.
About you
We are looking for someone with potential and a commitment to making a difference in people’s lives. You do not need a background in public health; we value lived experience, transferable skills, and willingness to learn and develop.
Essential requirements
* Does not hold and/or is not already enrolled in a degree or master’s qualification
* A minimum of 96 UCAS tariff points from Level 3 qualifications (e.g. A-levels or equivalent), either achieved or predicted
* At least three GCSEs (grade 4/C or above) (or equivalent), including English and Maths
* Good literacy skills, with the ability to write clear, accurate, and concise reports
* Good IT and numeracy skills, including the ability to gather and analyse information from a range of sources and maintain accurate records
* Good communication and interpersonal skills
* Can work collaboratively
Additional information
* The successful candidate will be required to start employment on 1st of September 2026
* The academic programme will start on the week commencing 7th of September 2026
* As part of the selection process you will be required to complete a basic skills assessment by the training provider (UWE Bristol)
We are committed to building an inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We value different perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences, recognising that these strengthen our organisation and the services we provide. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly those with lived experience of health, wellbeing, or barriers to accessing services and support.
What we can offer you
Salary: The salary band for this role is £26,402 - £28,207 per annum. The starting salary is £26,402 with annual progression through the salary bands.
Here at SCC we have a range of different benefits. Some examples include:
* Excellent local government pension with 15.2% employer contribution
* Death in service benefit of 3 salary
* Generous holiday 25–31 days, based on role and service
* Flexible working options (role-dependent)
* Family‑friendly policies – maternity, paternity, adoption, shared/unpaid parental leave, time off for dependants
* Training and development, including coaching and mentoring
* Health and wellbeing support – employee assistance programme, menopause pledge, mental health first aiders and staff networks
* Veteran‑friendly employer with the Armed Forces Covenant
* Retail discounts and savings through the Southampton City Council benefits platform
* Discounted memberships at local sports and fitness centres
* Sustainable travel benefits – low‑emission car scheme, cycle to work, season ticket loans
* Employee volunteering scheme with 2 paid days leave to volunteer
Useful links and information
For more information on the course programme and the knowledge, skills, and competencies you will develop, please view the Public Health Apprenticeship Standard – Public health practitioner integrated degree / Skills England.
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