23 new apprentices start at Blackburn Town Hall as council marks 15 years of scheme

Blackburn with Darwen Council has welcomed 23 new apprentices and graduates to Blackburn Town Hall this week, marking 15 years since its apprenticeship programme began.

The latest intake, described as the “Class of 2026”, is the fifteenth cohort to join the scheme since it launched in 2011. The council says the programme has helped hundreds of local people gain skills, qualifications and workplace experience.

The new recruits will work across a range of council services, including business support, finance and HR, roadworks, arboriculture and construction project management.

The council said apprenticeships play an important role in supporting the more than 800 services it delivers every day across the borough.

One former apprentice, Brayden Hartley, joined the council’s Communications Team in 2022 and has since secured a full-time job in Digital Marketing.

He said: “When I joined the Communications Team as an apprentice in 2022, I was just 16 and wasn’t completely sure what to expect. Looking back, it was one of the best decisions I’ve made. The apprenticeship gave me valuable experience, helped me develop skills that I use every day, and allowed me to learn from supportive colleagues.

“Working alongside experienced professionals has helped me grow in confidence and maturity, as well as build my career. Securing a full-time role with the Council is something I’m really proud of.”

Chief Executive Denise Park, who the council says is a strong supporter of the apprentice programme, said: “I’m proud that, for 15 years, our apprenticeship programme has helped local people develop skills, gain qualifications and build rewarding careers.

“It’s always exciting to welcome a new group of apprentices and see the fresh ideas and enthusiasm they bring to the Council.”

People looking for jobs can search vacancies on Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council’s jobs and recruitment page.