Two of Bishop Auckland’s leading charities are investing in the town’s future after recruiting a new cohort of apprentices to strengthen their organisations while creating valuable career opportunities for local people.
Working in partnership with Bishop Auckland College, The Auckland Project and Angel Trust have both recruited a business administration apprentice, who will provide administrative support across respective organisations. The role will see the apprentices gain hands-on experience in customer service and administration while supporting the day-to-day delivery of services that benefit residents across Bishop Auckland.
The Auckland Project has also appointed two finance apprentices, who are due to join the charity later this summer and will study accounting qualifications at New College Durham while developing practical skills within the organisation’s finance team.
The appointments reflect both organisations’ long-term commitment to developing local talent, creating sustainable employment opportunities and investing in the future workforce of County Durham. The Auckland Project currently employs more than 200 staff, with 80% coming from a 10-mile radius.
The Auckland Project continues to champion apprenticeships across the organisation, with existing members of staff currently studying qualifications ranging from Level 2 Property Maintenance through to Level 7 Accountancy. Apprentices are also undertaking qualifications in Business Administration and Hospitality Supervision, helping colleagues build skills and progress their careers while supporting the charity’s continued growth.
The charity has also recently celebrated the success of a trainee management accountant who pursued his apprenticeship with The Auckland Project before embarking on a new opportunity in Australia – demonstrating how apprenticeships can open doors to rewarding careers both locally and internationally.
Bishop Auckland College has played an important role in supporting employers across County Durham to recruit and develop apprentices, helping businesses and charities access local talent while enabling learners to gain nationally recognised qualifications alongside valuable workplace experience.
Jane Ruffer, Chief Executive of The Auckland Project, said: “We believe that investing in people is one of the most powerful ways we can strengthen our community. Apprenticeships give local people the opportunity to develop skills, build confidence and establish rewarding careers while making a real difference to the lives of others. We’re delighted to be working alongside Angel Trust, Bishop Auckland College and New College Durham to create these opportunities and support the next generation of talent in Bishop Auckland.”
Clair McGregor, Chief Executive of Angel Trust, said: “Creating opportunities for local people sits at the heart of everything we do. Apprenticeships are an important part of that commitment, enabling people to develop valuable skills while contributing to organisations that are working to transform Bishop Auckland. We are proud to work alongside The Auckland Project to invest in local talent and help build a stronger future for our town.”
Shaun Hope, Chief Executive and Principal at Bishop Auckland College Group, said: “Being at the very heart of our community is fundamental to everything we do at Bishop Auckland College.
“Apprenticeships are one of the most powerful tools we have to change lives, providing local people with the skills, confidence and hands-on experience they need to build meaningful careers.
“We are incredibly proud to partner with fantastic local charities like The Auckland Project and Angel Trust. Together, we aren’t just strengthening the delivery of their essential services, we are investing directly in the future of Bishop Auckland by developing and retaining homegrown talent.”
The Auckland Project and Angel Trust work together on several initiatives throughout the year to support local people and strengthen the community. One such partnership sees surplus produce from Auckland Palace’s Walled Garden donated to Angel Trust to help support families across County Durham.
Together, the organisations are helping to create a Bishop Auckland that residents can be proud of by providing support, experiences, employment opportunities and pathways into long-term careers.
