Met Office Hero Becomes World’s First Digital Accessibility Apprentice Graduate
A Met Office employee has smashed new ground by becoming the world’s very first Digital Accessibility Apprenticeship graduate. Adam Keane’s stunning achievement sets a global benchmark in technology inclusion and accessibility standards.
Trailblazing Apprenticeship Breaks Barriers
Adam joined the Met Office in September 2022 as a Specialist Apprentice in Digital Accessibility. This month, he completed the pioneering programme with Distinction — a first for the Met Office, the UK Civil Service, and the wider world.
Based at the Met Office’s Devon headquarters, Adam now uses his expertise to make vital weather and climate info accessible to everyone. That means helping people with visual, hearing, speech, motor, or cognitive impairments get the critical data they need.
“Accessibility Is a Little Thing That Makes a Huge Difference”
“For the past two years, I’ve embarked on an apprenticeship to become a Digital Accessibility Specialist. This is the first apprenticeship of its type anywhere in the world, and the Met Office was the first department within the Civil Service to offer it. I feel immensely proud to have completed it. It’s too early to say what the legacy will be, but I hope I’m the first of many who specialise in this field through an apprenticeship route. The work we do in digital accessibility matters—it’s a little thing that can make a huge difference.”
Overhauling Met Office Digital Access
Throughout his apprenticeship, Adam revamped Met Office digital platforms, including their website, mobile app, and social media channels. He gave staff hands-on training, led live review sessions, and embedded accessibility principles across the organisation—from recruitment systems to everyday communications.
One standout effort tackled the tricky use of colour in data visualisation:
“For some people, a Granny Smith apple and a buttercup may appear the same colour. We need to move beyond colour alone to convey meaning—adding symbols or other cues ensures no one is left behind,” Adam revealed.
Leaving a Lasting Legacy
Adam also co-founded the Met Office’s Digital Accessibility Community of Practice, a club dedicated to sharing best practices and pushing accessibility forward across the board.
Met Office Chief Exec Professor Penny Endersby hailed Adam’s achievement:
“Adam’s accomplishment exemplifies the forward-thinking ethos we champion here. Our services help millions make better decisions to stay safe and thrive, and it’s vital they are accessible to all. He has made a strong impact from his first days with us—warm congratulations to him on passing with Distinction.”
Building Inclusive Careers at the Met Office
The Met Office is committed to opening doors for young talent through apprenticeships, internships, industrial placements, and graduate roles. They are shaping the next wave of experts in science, technology, and public service.
Adam’s trailblazing success will inspire a new generation of accessibility specialists and organisations striving to create a truly inclusive digital future.
Want to follow in Adam’s footsteps? Visit www.metoffice.gov.uk/careers to explore career and apprenticeship opportunities.
