Apprenticeships, available across a wide range of industries and sectors, offer a professional qualification alongside experience in a professional setting with knowledge gained through work experience.
On Friday 16th October 2026, Kent County Council (KCC) saw 20 of its apprentices graduate at a ceremony held at Rochester Cathedral.
KCC’s People Strategy Lead, Michelle Flegg, said: “At KCC we ensure that through supported, work-based learning, our apprentices develop their confidence, professional knowledge and skills while contributing positively to both the service that they work in and across the council.
“The achievements of our apprentices demonstrate how we create accessible routes into employment and support the individual development of our existing workforce, enabling KCC to build a skilled, motivated workforce who understand our services.
“We are also proud to have been able to share our levy to support Kent employers and employees to access apprenticeship training in their professional areas, creating opportunities for many new employees to start their own professional development pathway.”
“The apprenticeships programme demonstrates that there is no single route to success.”
Speaking at Friday’s ceremony, KCC’s Leader – Linden Kemkaran – said: “At Kent County Council, we are passionate about apprenticeships because we see every day the difference they make.
“Apprenticeships bring new talent into organisations, help people develop rewarding careers and give employers the skills they need to succeed.
“As Leader I’m absolutely delighted to see that 20 of the people celebrating here today are from KCC.
“The apprenticeships programme demonstrates that there is no single route to success. Apprenticeships open doors for people of all ages and backgrounds, creating opportunities to learn, earn and progress at the same time.”
KCC has supported 469 learners and 244 employers to access apprenticeship training programmes.
Addressing employers and the support system of fellow apprentices to qualify on the same day, Ms Kemkaran added: “I would also like to thank the employers, training providers, families and friends who have supported you on your journey.”
