Borough Council named Apprentice Employer of the Year

The council received the award at the recent Leicester Employment Hub Apprentieship Graduation Ceremony, held at De Montfort Hall, Leicester. The accolade celebrates organisations that provide exceptional apprenticeship opportunities and support apprentices to develop the skills, confidence and experience needed to thrive in their careers.

HBBC was nominated by SueEllen Taylor, who recently completed her HR Assistant apprenticeship who praised the authority's commitment to creating meaningful, supportive and progressive apprenticeship opportunities.

In her nomination, she said: “I am nominating Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council for Apprenticeship Employer of the Year because of its outstanding commitment to creating meaningful, supportive and progressive apprenticeship opportunities.

“As an Apprentice HR Assistant, I have seen first-hand how the council invests in apprentices, treating them as valued members of the organisation while supporting their development.

“Apprenticeships are embedded in the council’s long-term approach to developing talent, with apprentices given real responsibilities, meaningful projects and opportunities to work alongside experienced professionals.

“As a result, apprentices quickly grow in skill and confidence, often progressing into further development opportunities or permanent roles.

“Its dedication to delivering high-quality apprenticeship experiences sets an exceptional standard for apprenticeship support.”

The council has a long and successful history of employing apprentices across a wide range of services, providing opportunities in both office-based and vocational roles.

Council Leader Stuart Bray said: "We are honoured to receive this award and are extremely grateful to SueEllen for taking the time to nominate us.

"Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council has employed apprentices for many years and we are incredibly proud of the opportunities we have been able to offer. Apprentices have worked across a wide range of services — from those pursuing careers on the administrative side of the organisation to those developing specialist skills as electricians, arborists and in many other professional and technical roles.”

Chief Executive Bill Cullen said: "Local government offers a diverse range of career opportunities and apprenticeships provide an excellent route into employment. As the cost of attending university continues to rise, apprenticeships give people the chance to earn while they learn, gain valuable workplace experience and build rewarding careers.

"I would encourage anyone considering their future, whether they are leaving school or looking for a change in career direction, to explore the opportunities apprenticeships can provide.

Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council currently supports apprentices across a variety of departments and remains committed to investing in skills, developing future talent, and creating opportunities that benefit both the organisation and the communities it serves.