Bradford College and BDCU Mark 10 Years of Apprenticeship Partnership

Decade-long collaboration supports local talent and community growth

Bradford College and BDCU Credit Union have marked a decade of working together to provide apprenticeship opportunities in West Yorkshire. Since 2016, the partnership has focused on developing local skills and supporting career progression while contributing to the growth of a community-based financial organisation.

Apprenticeships embedded in workforce strategy

BDCU Credit Union, a not-for-profit financial cooperative, has integrated apprenticeships into its core workforce planning. Approximately 40% of its employees are current or former apprentices, reflecting a sustained commitment to nurturing local talent. The organisation has expanded significantly over the last ten years, growing its membership from 3,000 to over 12,000 and increasing its payroll partner employers from three to 34, serving more than 4,000 employees across the region.

Long-term career development through apprenticeships

One notable example of the partnership’s impact is Bryony, who began as BDCU’s first Bradford College apprentice in 2016. Nearly ten years later, she remains one of the organisation’s longest-serving employees and experienced lending specialists. Bryony’s progression illustrates how apprenticeships can offer lasting and rewarding career pathways.

Recognition at regional apprenticeship awards

The collaboration between Bradford College and BDCU was recognised at the West Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards 2026. BDCU received the SME Employer of the Year award, while Bradford College apprentice Ariba Matloob won Advanced Apprentice of the Year. Ariba, who started in a Member Services role, has since been promoted to the Finance and Credit Control team. She has also been nominated for the National Skills and Apprenticeship Awards 2026.

Community impact and financial inclusion

BDCU focuses on promoting financial inclusion and supporting local communities through savings products, affordable loans, and workplace savings initiatives. The apprenticeship scheme forms part of this broader commitment to economic wellbeing in Bradford and the wider West Yorkshire area.

Statements from representatives

• Ian Brewer, EDI Community Development Lead at BDCU: Highlighted the partnership’s role in talent development, increased retention, and business success.
• Zoe Corcoran, Head of Apprenticeships & Business Development at Bradford College: Noted BDCU’s dual focus on community support and fostering apprenticeship pathways for local employees.

Looking forward

As the partnership celebrates ten years, it exemplifies how apprenticeships can contribute to individual career development, business growth, and community benefits. The collaboration serves as a case study for organisations considering investment in apprenticeship programmes as a strategy for sustainable workforce development.

For more information on employing apprentices, visit Bradford College’s website.