Development and Delivery of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council Labour Market Partnership Classroom Assistant Academy 2026/2027

Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council (ABC or "the Council") is the

largest local authority outside Belfast, serving a population of over 217,000 residents. The

Borough benefits from a strong and diverse economy, with 9,255 VAT and/or PAYEregistered

businesses—an increase of 3.6 percent since 2021, representing the highest

growth among all Local Government Districts (LGDs) and accounting for 11.7 percent of

all such businesses in Northern Ireland. This thriving economic landscape includes a

broad range of enterprises, from innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)

to globally recognised brands. The Council recognises that a skilled, adaptable, and

resilient workforce is essential for driving economic recovery, future growth, and long-term

prosperity. Our vision is for the Borough to be a place where every individual can access

opportunities and realise their full potential, regardless of background or circumstance.

This vision reflects the Council’s ongoing commitment to supporting people, families,

businesses, and communities to succeed and thrive. To achieve this, ABC Council is

actively addressing social and economic barriers to equality and inclusion. We are

working collaboratively with a wide range of stakeholders to promote productivity and

inclusive growth through targeted investment in skills development, business support, and

people-focused initiatives. Our aim is to ensure the Borough is underpinned by a dynamic, responsive skills system—one that meets the evolving needs of both employers and the

workforce, and supports sustainable, inclusive economic development.