Blenheim Palace and Pye Homes on target to smash 10-year apprenticeship goal

At the start of National Apprenticeship Week 2026 (February 9th – 15th), Blenheim Palace and Pye Homes have announced that they are on target to hit their shared 10-year goal of training over 100 new apprentices by the end of 2027.

Since 2017, across its various businesses – Palace, Estate and Property – Blenheim has already completed 84 apprenticeships and currently has 23 apprentices on site*, working in a range of departments and disciplines, including Gardens, Accountancy, and Collections.

Blenheim’s apprentices play an integral part in a wide range of large-scale projects – including its current landmark £12 million roof restoration.

Dominic Hare, CEO of Blenheim Palace, commented: “When we set ourselves the goal of training over 100 new apprentices, it wasn’t just about hitting a number – it was about creating real opportunities for people to grow, learn, and build meaningful careers. Achieving that goal has been one of the most inspiring parts of our journey.

“I couldn’t be prouder of the drive, creativity, and fresh perspectives our apprentices bring to Blenheim every day. Their impact goes far beyond the estate; they’re shaping their futures and making a genuine difference in the wider world.”

Megan Carter, People & Engagement Director at Blenheim Palace, said: “As we approach almost completion of the goal of 100 apprenticeships, I want to highlight not just the achievements of our 84 completed apprentices, but also the incredible people behind their success.

“Our dedicated managers,  team members and coaches who have played a vital role in nurturing talent and fostering an environment where diverse skills and perspectives can thrive. At Blenheim Palace and Pye Homes, we are committed to growing our own talent, changing lives, and enriching our organisation in the process. Each apprentice brings unique insights, and together, we build a stronger, more innovative team, ready to face the challenges of the future.”

Current apprentices include:

  • Tabby Witter, Level 3 Museums and Galleries Technician – Collections Apprentice: “I am currently working as the Collections Apprentice at Blenheim, which I have been doing since January 2025. This role has given me an incredibly wide range of experiences, and every day is completely different, which I love. My role involves cleaning and monitoring the different objects in the collection, which is made up of a diverse range of items including historical furniture, art and weaponry. I also check room environments, help during exhibition set-up and supervise during filming which takes place in the palace.

  • Thomas Want, Level 2 Gardens Apprentice: “I have really been enjoying gardening at Blenheim for the past few months. With the seasons, the gardens have changed so much and I can’t wait for spring and summer when they will truly flourish. I’ve learned a great deal from the fantastic gardens team and at Pershore College and I will continue to work hard to improve my skills and horticultural knowledge.”

  • Megan Johnston, L7 ACCA Apprentice: “I started my role at Blenheim over six and half years ago, working in the finance team as a Level 3 Apprentice. I came straight from sixth form with no real idea of the career I wanted. I have now just completed my third apprenticeship and have become a Chartered Certified Accountant, having recently received my final ACCA results. My role has been varied throughout the three apprenticeships. I currently work within the Management Accounts team, providing support to numerous areas of the business and ensuring spending stays on track. I also complete VAT returns, Gift Aid returns and a whole lot more.”

In 2017, Blenheim Palace and Pye Homes announced 10 goals to achieve in the following 10 years; as well as the aim to become a Top 100 UK employer, these included: triple its contribution to the local area; build high quality, affordable homes for 300 families; and become a net generator of green energy.

For more information on Blenheim Palace and the 10-year goals, visit www.blenheimpalace.com/about-us/our-goals/

ENDS

For more information, contact Campaign, A Cab Studio – [email protected]

About Blenheim Palace 

Home to the Dukes of Marlborough since 1705, UNESCO World Heritage Site, Blenheim Palace is set in over 2,000 acres of ‘Capability’ Brown landscaped parkland and is the birthplace of one of Britain’s most famous leaders, Sir Winston Churchill.

With over 300 years of history to share and one of the most important and extensive collections in Europe, Blenheim Palace is not only an iconic part of history, but also a living, changing experience with a wealth of sporting and cultural events, themed exhibitions and tours all year around.

A short miniature train ride away from the Palace is the Walled Garden, which boasts interactive areas entirely dedicated for families to explore including Adventure Play and the Rowse Honey Hive, The Marlborough Maze and Butterfly House. With curated events, an exciting programme of annual activities, entertainment and dedicated eateries for families, these areas guarantee a memorable family day out.

Beyond the grounds and an array of Formal Gardens, the total Estate expands into a further 10,000 acres and focuses on care for the land through sustainable means, pursuing net zero, the growth of the local economy, the provision of affordable homes, apprenticeship training and supported community groups.

Blenheim Palace is Britain’s Greatest Palace.