National Apprenticeship Week 2025: 10th – 16th February 2025

National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) is back for 2025, running from February 10th to 16th, and it’s set to be an exciting week-long celebration that brings together businesses, apprentices, and learners from all across the country. This year’s theme, Skills for Life, focuses on the incredible benefits of apprenticeships, not only for individuals, but also for businesses and the wider economy.

NAW 2025 encourages people to reflect on how apprenticeships and skills development contribute to shaping successful and rewarding careers. It highlights the stories of apprentices who have gained confidence, developed new skills, and acquired valuable knowledge that have helped launch them into exciting career paths.

As a diverse and multicultural organisation, Blackburn with Darwen Council is proud to offer apprenticeship programmes that provide valuable opportunities for local people. Our apprenticeship schemes are a key part of our commitment to ensuring that the borough’s future is supported by a skilled, talented workforce. The Council provides a wide range of apprenticeship opportunities that allow individuals to contribute to the success of their community while building the foundation for a rewarding career.

Aaminah Karolia, Social Media Content Apprentice said:

After taking a gap year, I decided to pursue an apprenticeship, and it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made. My apprenticeship with Blackburn with Darwen Council has been an incredible opportunity for personal growth and has expanded my knowledge of Digital Marketing. I’m lucky to work with an incredibly supportive team, and my manager has been instrumental in helping me build my confidence. For anyone considering an apprenticeship but feeling uncertain, my advice is simple: go for it! It’s a chance to learn, explore opportunities, and gain real-world experience.

Former Apprentice Brayden Hartley said:

As a former apprentice, I can’t praise my surrounding team and manager enough. Starting an apprenticeship truly helped me develop my confidence and skills within the workplace. If you are debating whether to take up an apprenticeship, I strongly suggest you do so, experiencing a work-place environment, whilst also getting the much-needed support from colleagues, developing life-long skillsets.

These apprentices play a crucial role in driving the success of the Council’s services and are passionate about the opportunities apprenticeships offer.

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

Apprenticeships are a fantastic way for people to gain valuable skills, earn a salary, and build a successful career. At Blackburn with Darwen Council, we are proud to support local talent through our apprenticeship programme, helping individuals develop their potential while making a real difference in our community. National Apprenticeship Week is a great opportunity to celebrate the achievements of our apprentices and highlight the impact they have on our workforce and borough.

One of the great things about apprenticeships is that they are open to anyone above the age of 16 who is not in full-time education, with no upper age limit. This ensures that apprenticeships are accessible to people from all walks of life, offering a fresh start or a new career direction at any stage of life.

Are you looking to start or develop your career? Join us at our Apprenticeship & Careers Event to learn more about the apprenticeships, graduate roles, and entry-level opportunities available at Blackburn with Darwen Council.

This event is a great opportunity to explore the roles on offer, meet industry professionals, and take the next step towards a rewarding career.

13th February, Blackburn Leisure Centre, 4:30 PM – 7:00 PM

We look forward to welcoming you.