Blackpool and The Fylde College (B&FC) is celebrating National Apprenticeship Week 2026 (9–15 February) by highlighting the positive impact apprenticeships have on individuals, businesses and the wider community.
An action-packed programme across the week reflects the national theme, Skills for Life, showcasing how the breadth of B&FC’s provision equips learners of all ages with the knowledge and experience needed to unlock progression into sustained employment.
Each day has a clear theme* supported by employer engagement, apprentice case studies and activities demonstrating the role apprenticeships play in developing a skilled workforce and supporting economic growth.
Live skills demonstrations across B&FC and partner locations include hair apprentices showcasing upstyling, employer-led engagement focused on early years and health sensory development, and digital apprentices working with their robotic dog, Patch, to demonstrate technical and transferable skills. Chartered Manager Degree Apprentices will also deliver presentations on Return On Investment (ROI) at the University Centre and Lancashire County Hall.
The B&FC for Business team will visit employers across the region, including the launch of recruitment for a new Project Management scholar programme with Royal Mail, engineering apprenticeships with Fox’s Burton’s Companies, and an apprentice academy with L&I Eaton. Engagement will also take place at the Business Growth Network and the National Skills Academy for Nuclear.
New apprentice case studies** will be released across B&FC’s social media channels including Amanda Barbour, a Chartered Manager Degree Apprentice working at Lancashire County Council, and Paula Davies, owner of Coastal Radio DAB, who recruited an apprentice to fill skills gaps and add value to her small business.
Simon Hughes, Executive Principal of Blackpool and The Fylde College, said: “National Apprenticeship Week is a key moment in the skills calendar and reflects the growing importance of apprenticeships within the modern workforce.”
“More than 1,000 learners came to network with employers at our Apprenticeship Job Fair last Thursday – and in the past year, we’ve supported more than 650 new apprenticeship starts, with around 45 per cent at higher and degree level.
“This week highlights the support we offer employers to develop skills aligned to their needs, while offering clear progression routes for individuals. With strong employer relationships, industry-standard facilities and experienced technical teaching teams, we are excited to be delivering apprenticeships that improve learner outcomes and support regional economic growth.”
Businesses wanting to find out more about apprenticeships with B&FC, including the support and incentives available, should visit www.blackpool.ac.uk/bfc-for-business.
Further information for learners is available at www.blackpool.ac.uk/apprenticeships.
