This is the UK Government-backed ranking — a fantastic achievement that reflects our commitment to developing talent and supporting career pathways across the organisation and guides us in our future planning to make long lasting commitments to the people of our borough. Sandwell Council is one of only three local authorities nationwide to feature in the top 50 rankings.

Apprenticeships play a vital role in shaping the future of public services. They bring fresh ideas, new skills, and a strong sense of ambition into the organisation. Being recognised among the top 50 employers nationally demonstrates the strength of our apprenticeship strategy, the dedication of our managers and mentors and the hard work of every apprentice who contributes to delivering high quality services for residents.

Over the past year, we have expanded our apprenticeship offer across a wide range of professions — from digital roles to HR, finance, highways, Housing and customer services. This ranking highlights the impact of that investment and reinforces our commitment to building a skilled, confident and future ready workforce.

What do our apprentices think?

Amaani Malik, Digital Services Apprentice said ” I enjoy working as part of a team and I feel supported every day. I am passionate about developing my technical skills and gaining real world experience. I can also earn whilst learning and create relationships with professionals and learn new skills in the workplace”.

Councillor Jack Sabharwal – Cabinet Member for Education and Skills said: “We’re extremely proud of our apprenticeship programme. It’s important for us to nurture local talent and encourage more people to join an apprenticeship programme and build a brighter future for themselves and help people get the skills they need to progress in their careers and reap the financial rewards of moving up the career ladder”.

The initiative forms part of the council’s Sandwell Story, a project to celebrate, champion and bring people together in making Sandwell a great place to live, learn, work and visit. The apprenticeship programme spans a range of sectors including administration, engineering, social care and digital services, reflecting Sandwell Council’s commitment to meeting the needs of a diverse and evolving local economy.

Find out more about apprenticeships at Sandwell Council, visit our Sandwell Careers Service website www.sandwell.gov.uk/CareersService