Wandsworth celebrates National Apprenticeship Week with Early Careers showcase

Delivered in partnership with the council’s Organisational Development team and Wandsworth Lifelong Learning, the event brought together young people from South Thames College, Southfields Academy, Burntwood School and Saint Cecilia’s Church of England School.

Across two interactive sessions, students explored apprenticeship pathways, met current apprentices and learned about wider early-career opportunities within Wandsworth Council.

“Starting my apprenticeship with the council has given me responsibility while continuing to learn and develop new skills,” said current apprentice Margot Saywood.

“It’s helped me build confidence and see a clear future career path.”

Alaina Zar, fellow apprentice, added: “Being able to earn, gain qualifications and make a difference in the community at the same time is incredibly rewarding.

“I’d encourage anyone considering their next steps to look at apprenticeships.”

Wandsworth Council currently supports 140 apprentices, including the development of 30 new AI and Data apprenticeships, a major step in building a digitally confident, future-ready workforce.

Rooted in the council’s Digital and Data Strategy, this work emphasises innovation, responsible AI and data-driven efficiency, supporting the ambition to be the most digitally literate local authority.

National Apprenticeship Week is the UK’s annual celebration of apprenticeships, highlighting the value, opportunity and lifelong skills they provide. This year’s showcase focused on raising awareness of career-focused routes into employment and helping students understand how their studies can connect to future careers in local government and beyond.

Judi Gasser, Cabinet Member for Children, welcomed students and encouraged them to consider careers in public service: “National Apprenticeship Week is a great introduction to the life-changing opportunities apprenticeships create for young people and for our communities.

“We want Wandsworth to be the very best place for children and young people to grow up in. We aim to support every child to achieve their dream and have a successful career.”

The showcase aimed to ensure young people left with a clearer understanding of apprenticeship routes, application processes and the breadth of careers available in local government.

Supporting young people into education, employment and training is central to Wandsworth’s ambition to remain the best place for children and young people to grow up, with strong partnerships between schools, colleges, employers and the council helping to create opportunity at every stage of a young person's journey.

The council has also recently launched Horizon 26, a five-week summer internship for young people aged 16 and over, paid at the London Living Wage. The programme offers valuable hands-on experience across council services, supported those interested in public service, community impact, project work or exploring future career pathways within local government.

Apprenticeship vacancies are advertised at Jobs and careers with Richmond and Wandsworth Councils

For more information, email earlycareersandapprenticeships@richmondandwandsworth.gov.uk.