Lancashire County Council (LCC) invites suppliers, SMEs, social enterprises, voluntary and community organisations, and local businesses to join our Apprenticeships Made Simple Engagement Event.
At our Meet the Buyer events, organisations told us they wanted clearer information about apprenticeships, including funding, recruitment, workforce development, social value commitments and the support available to employers.
Whether you're considering your first apprentice or looking to grow an existing programme, this event will offer practical advice and introduce you to organisations that can help.
This event will help you:
- Understand apprenticeships - Learn how apprenticeships work, who they are suitable for, and the benefits they can bring to your organisation.
- Develop your workforce - Explore how apprenticeships can help attract new talent, address skills gaps, retain staff, and support succession planning.
- Navigate funding and incentives - Gain clarity on apprenticeship funding, employer responsibilities, salary considerations, and financial incentives available to support recruitment.
- Support social value commitments - Understand how apprenticeships contribute to social value outcomes and wider community benefits.
- Connect with providers and support organisations - Meet local colleges and support services that can guide you through the process.
- Create opportunities for local people - Explore how apprenticeships can create meaningful opportunities for young people across Lancashire, including those who are Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET) and care leavers.
Why Attend?
- Speak directly with apprenticeship specialists, training providers and Council teams, and get answers to the questions that matter to your organisation.
- Whether you are considering your first apprentice or looking to expand an existing programme, this event will provide practical information and direct access to organisations that can support your journey.
You'll leave with a clearer understanding of:
- How to recruit an apprentice.
- What support and funding is available.
- The role of training providers
- How apprenticeships support business growth.
- How apprenticeships align with procurement and social value expectations.
- Opportunities to connect with local talent and education providers.
Topics Covered
- Apprenticeships Explained
- An introduction to apprenticeships, including eligibility, funding rules, employer responsibilities, and available apprenticeship pathways.
- Building Your Future Workforce
- How apprenticeships can support recruitment, talent development, skills growth, workforce planning, and business resilience.
- Social Value and Apprenticeships
- Understanding the role apprenticeships play in delivering social value commitments and supporting local communities.
- Recruiting and Supporting Apprentices
- Practical guidance on attracting candidates, supporting young people, engaging with care leavers, and creating positive workplace experiences.
- Working with Training Providers
- Meet apprenticeship providers and colleges who can explain the support available throughout the apprenticeship journey.
- Supplier Experiences and Case Studies
- Hear examples of how organisations have successfully used apprenticeships to develop skills and strengthen their workforce.
Guest Speakers and Contributors
Representatives are expected from:
- Lancashire County Council Talent & Performance Team
- Lancashire Skills & Employment Hub
- Lancashire County Council Procurement and Commercial & Contract Management Teams
Social Value Specialists
- Apprenticeship Training Providers from Local Further Education Colleges
- Further speaker announcements and agenda details will be shared ahead of the event.
Network and Ask Questions
Following the presentations, attendees will have the opportunity to speak directly with apprenticeship specialists, training providers, procurement professionals, and support organisations.
This informal networking session will allow organisations to:
- Ask specific questions about apprenticeships.
- Explore local training opportunities.
- Discuss workforce development challenges.
- Connect with organisations offering specialist support.
Share experiences and best practice with other businesses.
Who Should Attend?
This event is suitable for:
- Existing Lancashire County Council suppliers.
- Businesses interested in recruiting apprentices.
- SMEs and voluntary sector organisations.
- Organisations with social value commitments.
- Employers seeking workforce development solutions.
Businesses wanting to understand apprenticeship funding and support.
Register Your Place
Places are free but limited.
