Apprenticeships were put under the spotlight and celebrated at 13th National Apprenticeship Week, which commenced on Monday 3rd February 2020. We held a series of events on Thursday 13th February at our Braintree Campus.
Activities taking place included a full day event for 1,400 pupils from schools around the Braintree District. Organised in partnership with Braintree IAG Cluster Group, Braintree District Council and Make Happen, the event provided students with the opportunity to find out more about the apprenticeships and career pathways open to them in the region.
Students were able to meet employers, apprenticeship experts and speak to learners who are already apprentices. Many of those in attendance were not aware that they could undertake an apprenticeship to reach their desired career. This information will be key to help them make an informed decision about their next steps.
Not only was the day informative for students, but they got to experience the new facilities at the College’s Braintree campus. Significant investment has been made to the Braintree campus over the past 3 years. The STEM Innovation Centre opened in 2017 and the newest build, the Learning and Technology Centre was completed in November 2019. Each house the latest, industry-standard technology that an apprentice would expect to find in the workplace. Learning techniques and practices during their time at College gives apprentices valuable time for trial and error.
The day was not just about raising awareness of apprenticeships to those still in school but the campus was also open to the public in the evening.
Amanda Drew, Director of Apprenticeships and Business Solutions said: “This year’s event showcased Colchester Institute’s continued growth in the variety of apprenticeship standards offered, the increase of employers working with Colchester Institute and the diversity of ages of those enrolling onto apprenticeships. Employers value the apprenticeship offer to introduce new entrants into their organisation, as well as using apprenticeship standards to fill organisational skills gaps. Those coming along to the event were able to better understand how their choice of an apprenticeship could progress their career choice up to Degree level without incurring any costs to themselves.”
Those interested in finding out about apprenticeships are advised to visit the College’s next Apprenticeship Information Event on 27th May 2020. Online bookings can be made at colchester.ac.uk/events
