A Met Office employee has made history by becoming the world’s first graduate of a Digital Accessibility Apprenticeship, marking a milestone achievement in inclusive technology and accessibility standards.
Adam Keane, who joined the Met Office in September 2022 as a Specialist Apprentice in Digital Accessibility, has successfully completed the pioneering programme this month with Distinction. His achievement is not only a first for the Met Office and the UK Civil Service, but also globally, setting a new benchmark in accessibility training and digital inclusion.
Now continuing his career at the Met Office’s headquarters in Devon, Adam will apply his expertise to ensure that critical weather and climate services are accessible to everyone, including those with visual, hearing, speech, motor, cognitive, or other impairments.
“Accessibility is a little thing that can make a huge difference”
Reflecting on his groundbreaking journey, Adam said:
“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.”
Transforming Access to Weather and Climate Information
During his apprenticeship, Adam worked extensively to assess and improve the accessibility of Met Office digital platforms, including its website, mobile app, and social media channels. He also provided practical guidance to staff, delivered live review sessions, and helped embed accessibility principles into key organisational processes—from recruitment systems to everyday communications.
One of his notable contributions was around the use of colour in data visualisation, ensuring vital weather information is presented in ways that can be understood by people with different visual perceptions.
“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 explained.
A Lasting Impact
Adam also co-founded the Digital Accessibility Community of Practice within the Met Office, creating a collaborative space to promote best practices and continuous learning across the organisation.
Professor Penny Endersby, Chief Executive of the Met Office, praised Adam’s achievements:
“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.”
Shaping the Future of Inclusive Careers
The Met Office continues to invest in early career opportunities through apprenticeships, work experience, industrial placements, and graduate roles, helping to develop the next generation of talent in science, technology, and public service.
Adam’s success serves as an inspiration not only to aspiring accessibility specialists but also to organisations aiming to build a more inclusive digital future.
For more information on careers and apprenticeships at the Met Office, visit: www.metoffice.gov.uk/careers
