Over 300 Barking and Dagenham residents attended the council’s Job Fair on Tuesday 11 February at the BLC.

Live apprenticeships vacancies with local firms and expert careers advice were on offer for local people wanting to take their first steps with an apprenticeship. 

Companies at the event included TfL, CU London, Vistry Group, construction firm Rooff and many more. 

The event was organised by B&D Works, the council’s free employment support service which is designed to give residents the skills and opportunities they need to get in to work. It was organised in collaboration with Job Centre Plus.

On Wednesday (12 February), between 1pm – 2pm, the council is hosting a free webinar for local businesses to find out more about the funding and support available for apprenticeships. 

A video taking a look at the range of apprenticeship roles the council provides has also been released. The short film features seven council apprentices talking about their careers with the local authority. 

On Friday, an internal council event will also be taking place to award certificates to recently graduated apprentices and staff members who have completed on the job training. 

Cllr Sade Bright, Cabinet Member for Employment, Skills and Aspiration, said: “Apprenticeships are a great way for people of all ages to learn new skills, build a career and earn while they do it. 

“We’ve always been committed to making sure residents get the support they need to not only get into work, but to start the valuable careers they deserve.” 

The council currently has over 150 staff on apprenticeship programmes.

Residents looking to get into an apprenticeship should keep an eye on both the council jobs page and the B&D Works vacancies page.