Sandwell Council expands apprenticeship scheme

Sandwell Council has launched a new apprenticeship drive after being named one of the top 100 apprenticeship employers in the UK for 2025.

The council is one of only four local authorities nationally to feature in the Department for Education (DfE) and RateMyApprenticeship list, which ranks organisations based on their commitment to apprenticeships, diversity, and apprentice feedback.

Sandwell was ranked 64th, having supported more than 1,100 apprenticeship starts since 2017, including over 650 new entrants. Apprentices have joined across all departments, including schools, with ages ranging from 16 to 62.

As part of its “Making It Sandwell” campaign, the council has launched a new “100 Apprentices by 2027” programme. Roles will include customer service, business administration, carpentry, IT, early years, marketing, horticulture, housing and property, adult social care, human resources, plumbing and gas central heating, painting and motor vehicle.

Details of vacancies, including job descriptions and entry requirements, will be published as they go live.

Two recruitment events are taking place today (19 August) at the Operations and Development Centre, Direct 2 Industrial Park, Roway Lane, Oldbury, focused on trades apprenticeships; and another at Sandwell Council House, Freeth Street, Oldbury, covering all roles.

Cllr Syeda Khatun, cabinet member for business and skills at Sandwell Council, said: “We are delighted to be recognised as a Top 100 Apprenticeship Employer. Apprenticeships are a vital way of developing the skills and talents of our workforce, as well as supporting the local economy.

“We’re committed to helping people of all ages develop the skills they need for meaningful employment close to home. Apprentices also get to work alongside experienced and passionate colleagues in a variety of departments at the council.”