Nelson and Colne College Group set to host Virtual Apprenticeship Open Event

“We believe there has never been a better time to take on apprentices as they will play a vital role in the recovery of the economy,” says Rowena Brough, head of work based learning at Nelson and Colne College Group.

Rowena’s statement comes as the College Group prepares to host a Virtual Apprenticeship Open Event on Wednesday 3 February, between 6pm and 8pm. 

The online event is perfect for those looking to become an apprentice and boost their career prospects. Apprenticeships are highly sought after by employers, with 85% of apprentices staying in employment upon completion of their programme.

Apprenticeships are designed to help businesses build vital skills and knowledge for the future – a benefit that has become more invaluable than ever as the country recovers from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

During the online event, visitors will be able to find out more about apprenticeships and hear from employers and apprentices about their positive experiences – including through exclusive new video content.

Those attending will also have the chance to learn about work experience, industry placements, volunteering opportunities, apply for live vacancies, and much more. 

Rowena Brough said: “We’ve pulled out all the stops to provide an engaging online platform for our Virtual Apprenticeship Open Event.“This includes valuable insight from employers and the sharing of inspiring stories by current apprentices, including award winners, out there in the world of work.“Our expert Apprenticeship Team will be available to answer any questions on the night from visitors. There will also be the option to apply for live vacancies and arrange personalised call backs to discuss apprenticeship opportunities in greater detail. We look forward to welcoming everyone to our virtual event.”

Motor repair garage Graham’s of Colne is one business to have benefited from apprenticeships with Nelson and Colne College Group over many years. 

Joe Clarke, 22, who is the latest team member to begin his apprenticeship journey, said: “I’ve always wanted to go into Motor Engineering, and my apprenticeship is developing the skills I need for the future. I also have a unit myself where I work on cars out of hours and at weekends to strengthen my knowledge.”

Previous apprentice Daniel McNicholas, 33, is Workshop Manager and Senior Technician at Graham’s of Colne. He said: “My apprenticeship definitely served me well and I love working in Motor Engineering.

“I really enjoy the problem solving, the diagnostics and the satisfaction of getting things fixed to achieve a good result for the customer. We’re definitely at the cutting edge in an industry that is changing all the time.” 

Darren Mitchell, owner of Graham’s of Colne, said: “I did my apprenticeship with Nelson and Cone College Group and I progressed in the industry after completing it, building up the experience and knowledge required to become a garage owner.

“The passion I have for apprenticeships is reflected in the fact that all the staff I employ have either completed their apprenticeship or they are working towards achieving it.” 

The benefits of apprenticeships include earning a salary, training in the skills employers want, and excellent progression opportunities.

There is also increased future earning potential, learning is done at a pace suited to the apprentice, and apprentices have the support of a mentor. 

Nelson and Colne College Group offers apprenticeships across a wide range of sectors and is number one in Lancashire for 16-18 Advanced Apprenticeship timely achievement, according to the latest Government data. It is also number one in the county for employer satisfaction, based on the latest FE Choices Employer Survey.

Registration for the Virtual Apprenticeship Open Event can be completed here. 

For more information about apprenticeships with Nelson and Colne College Group, please contact the Apprenticeship Team today at: apprenticeships@nelsongroup.ac.uk