National Apprenticeship Week 2026

National Apprenticeship Week (9 – 15 February) is a week-long celebration to shine a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships make to individuals, businesses and the wider economy.

Carmarthenshire County Council values the contribution apprentices make, with its long running Amdani – apprenticeship programme welcoming a new cohort of 17 apprentices in September 2025, bringing the total number of apprentices recruited through the programme to 25.

Apprenticeship placements ranged from level two to degree apprenticeships within a range of areas including IT, digital skills for business, data analytics, digital learning, libraries, archives and information services.

As part of their development, apprentices have also had the opportunity to strengthen their Welsh language skills with the support of mentors and a dedicated session on working within a bilingual organisation. They are continuing their learning journey alongside a tailored Continuous Professional Development programme, designed to broaden their understanding of the organisation while encouraging collaboration and relationship-building.

Sianco Emmanuel joined Carmarthenshire County Council in September 2024 on a long-term work experience placement which, working closely with Ysgol y Strade, was tailored to Sianco’s interests and abilities. 

With a clear passion for practical work, Sianco chose to explore painting and decorating, attending placement with the County Council for two days a week while continuing his GCSE studies at school for the remainder of the week.

Through working closely with the Council’s Property Maintenance Team and with the support of his mentor, Adrian Brown, Sianco soon began developing his practical skills, working across a variety of sites including County Hall in Carmarthen, residential homes and other Council owned office buildings.

Sianco said: 

“I really enjoy working with the team and learning new things all the time. I like to be busy, and every day is different.  I think doing work experience last year really helped me decide what career I wanted to do when I left school. This year in college, I find it helpful that I understand some of the information we are taught in the lessons as its things Adrian and the team have taught me on site.”

Since September 2025, Sianco has been part of the Cyfle Building Skills Shared Apprenticeship Scheme, a service which supports young adults into sustainable employment within the construction industry, where he has started his apprenticeship in painting and decorating whilst remaining with Carmarthenshire County Council.

Performance and Innovation apprentice, Benjamin Evans, has also recently won the Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol Learner Award at the Academy Wales Annual Apprenticeship Awards in Neath Port Talbot College for his dedication to learning through the medium of Welsh.

Ben said:

“I’m passionate about the Welsh culture and language and I am delighted with the award. I have enjoyed upskilling and using the Welsh language daily and being able to support others to grow in confidence.”

As well as its Amdani programme, Carmarthenshire County Council also supports 150 members of staff to develop their skills and progress their careers within the organisation.

Since 2022, the Council’s Care Academi has supported 18 trainees looking for a career in social work or social care, each bringing their own passion, commitment, and journey into social care. 

Carmarthenshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Organisation and Workforce, Cllr Philip Hughes, said:

“Apprenticeships are a fantastic way for people of all ages to develop their skills and gain qualifications while earning a wage. I must thank not only our apprentices for their hard work, but also those working across Carmarthenshire County Council who provide such excellent support and mentorship. This enables apprentices to thrive and provides them with the skills and knowledge to carve out successful careers.”