National Apprenticeship Week

We’ve celebrated National Apprenticeship Week promoting the achievements of Blackburn with Darwen Council’s apprentices, showcasing their achievements and journey. 

As a diverse and multicultural organisation, the Council is committed to offering apprenticeship programmes to local people, providing opportunities to do the best for our borough and help support our future. 

There are between 40 and 50 apprentices working across the Council at any one time in departments such as leisure, childcare, highways and finance. Our apprentices genuinely believe that they are an ideal opportunity to start your career.  

Apprenticeships are open to anyone above the age of 16, not in full time education – and there is no upper age limit. This means it’s open to people at all levels and all backgrounds.  

Chief Executive Denise Park supports the Council’s Apprenticeship Programme. She said:  

“It is a brilliant opportunity for people to start their career whilst getting a valuable qualification and a salary. National Apprenticeship Week is an ideal time to share the successful stories of our apprentices here at Blackburn with Darwen.  

“Our services benefit from having apprentices who add value and fresh ideas. By working together, we achieve much more and these people help make a difference to the towns we serve.” 

Claire Brough, Social Work Degree Apprentice, said: 

“Being accepted to complete the social work degree apprenticeship with Blackburn with Darwen has been an amazing opportunity for me. As a mature student I have found it a lot harder to be accepted to other apprenticeships, however Blackburn with Darwen have apprentices from all ages, and this made me feel more confident in my application. I think, that as an apprentice, you have an advantage over those that have simply completed a degree with placement. You get to see the real role and experience the true nature of the job through shadowing and observing qualified professionals.” 

Jenna Gillatt, Paralegal Apprentice working in the Property Services legal team, said:   

“One of the aspects I truly enjoy about my role is the diversity of the work – every day presents new challenges and opportunities. Whether it’s collaborating with colleagues on community development projects or finding ways to implement new initiatives to improve the borough, there is always something interesting going on. This keeps me motivated and constantly learning.”  

Anas Patel, Apprentice within Resources and Procurement, said:  

“Working for Blackburn with Darwen has been a fulfilling experience, marked by a collaborative spirit and a genuine commitment to professional growth. The mentorship provided within the team has played a pivotal role in shaping my understanding of the public sector and has fuelled my passion for contributing to the community. 

“I am proud to be a part of an organization that values apprenticeship programs and actively supports the development of its workforce. I would definitely recommend the apprenticeship programme offered by BwDBC, where you will receive support and mentorship, and really build a career.” 

Further details on our apprenticeships at BwD can be found here. 

Plus a recruitment event in King George’s Hall on Thursday 22 February will give people the chance to find out about apprenticeships starting in September 2024 – both at entry level and for graduates.  

Everyone is welcome to the event which runs between 4.30pm and 7pm.