Over 400 local residents turned out for the borough’s largest ever jobs fair on Thursday 12 February at Dagenham Library. 

Apprenticeships and jobs with local firms, careers advice as well as CV guidance were all on offer to the hundreds who attended. 

Firms from sectors such as construction, health care, hair and beauty and many more were on hand to speak to potential candidates about the roles they offer. 

Around 50 Year 10 and 11 students from local schools also went along to learn more about what an apprenticeship could offer them. 

Companies at the event included the NHS, BD Group, Vistry and more. Colleges and training companies including Barking and Dagenham College, Newham College and New City College were also at the event.

On Tuesday 10 February, local employers were invited to a special online seminar hosted by the council’s Business Forum. They learned about the benefits of hiring apprentices as well as special funding and support they could access to set up courses at their companies. 

And on Friday 13 February, the council hosted a special ceremony for employees who have completed their apprenticeship courses or on-the-job training. 

Cllr Sade Bright, Cabinet Member for Employment, Skills and Aspiration, said: “National Apprenticeship Week is a great way for the council to bring together our resources to focus on supporting residents into this rewarding form of work and learning. 

“Our business and employment support services have worked incredibly hard over the past week to get the borough thinking about apprenticeships and I couldn’t be happier.” 

To find out more about employment support on offer in Barking and Dagenham, head to the B&D Opportunities website.