First Steps, Lasting Impact: The LDN Community Engagement Academy in Action

Since launching the first cohort of the LDN Community Engagement Academy in October 2024, apprentices from councils across the country have already begun to make a lasting impact. In less than a year, the programme has brought together professionals from a wide range of local authorities, helping them to strengthen their skills, build confidence, and take their community engagement work to the next level.

The response so far has been hugely positive. Learners are not only applying new tools and techniques in their day-to-day roles, but also shaping projects, influencing strategies, and connecting with peers in ways that are already making a difference for the communities they serve.

Here, some of our apprentices reflect on the impact the Academy has had on them so far.

Building confidence and professional skills

A key theme from learners has been the confidence they’ve gained—both in how they see themselves and in the skills they bring to their roles. Many have spoken about how the Academy has empowered them to engage more effectively with colleagues, communities, and stakeholders.

Applying learning directly in the workplace

Learners also highlight how practical the programme is—emphasising how quickly they can apply their new knowledge to projects and responsibilities. From project management to consultation design, the Academy has helped apprentices bring new ideas and approaches into their day-to-day work.

Connecting with peers and sharing best practices

Another benefit learners emphasise is the opportunity to build networks and share experiences with peers from across local government. The Academy has created a space for community engagement professionals to connect, collaborate, and learn from one another.

Looking ahead

The impact of the LDN Community Engagement Academy is already clear - apprentices are more confident, applying their learning in practical ways, and strengthening the way councils engage with their communities.

For learners, the programme provides a powerful opportunity to grow professionally and make a greater impact in their work. For line managers, it means team members who are better equipped, more confident, and ready to take on new challenges.

Cohorts are filling quickly, so now’s the perfect time to explore how the LDN Community Engagement Academy could benefit your organisation. Find out more and get in touch with the LDN team today.

Huge thank you to our LDN Community Engagement Academy apprentices at London Borough of Havering, Nottingham City Council, London Borough of Barking and Dagenham, London Borough of Newham, and Westminster City Council for their contributions.