Sandwell has a stronger local work-and-skills offer than many residents realise. If you want a job, a career change, an apprenticeship, a short training course or better basic skills, the two main local council routes are Think Sandwell and Sandwell Adult and Family Learning (SAFL).
Who this page is for
This guide is for residents aged 16+ who want help finding work, improving employability, exploring apprenticeships or building confidence before returning to work.
It is also useful for parents, carers, support workers and advisers who want a practical signposting page rather than a general list of websites.
Think Sandwell: the main employment route
Sandwell Council’s Think Sandwell Employment and Skills Team supports residents aged 16+ with jobs, apprenticeships and short training to help people get work-ready.
- Local job vacancies with employers across the borough
- Apprenticeship vacancies with the council, schools and other local employers
- Employment adviser appointments in locations throughout Sandwell
- Help with CVs, application forms, interview practice and career choices
The service is designed to be practical and local rather than just a vacancy board.
Sandwell Adult and Family Learning (SAFL)
SAFL is the council’s adult education service. It is open to people aged 19+ living in Sandwell or the wider West Midlands and delivers part-time daytime and evening courses across all six Sandwell towns at more than 30 venues.
- English, Maths and ICT
- First Aid and skills-based courses
- Creative and confidence-building courses
- Information, advice and guidance on careers, learning needs and CV writing
Current public information highlights three dedicated centres: Hateley Heath FETC in West Bromwich, Tipton College in Tipton and the Ron Davis Centre in Smethwick.
How to decide which route to use
- Use Think Sandwell if you want a job, an apprenticeship, CV help or an employment adviser
- Use SAFL if you first need skills, confidence, qualifications or a stepping stone back into learning
- Use both if you need training and job-search support together
This combination often works well for residents who have been out of work for a while or who want to move into a different sector.
Useful Sandwell links
- Think Sandwell
- Help finding work
- Think Sandwell Employment and Skills Team
- Sandwell Adult and Family Learning
- Employment support
