WILTSHIRE College & University Centre has reached a major milestone in its ambitious apprenticeship campaign ahead of schedule, and is now setting its sights even higher.
The college launched its 150 in 100 campaign during National Apprenticeship Week on 10th February, with the aim of securing 150 new apprenticeship opportunities in 100 days.
It has now hit that target early, thanks to support from employers across the region, and is extending the campaign to 200 apprenticeship pledges in 100 days.
The initiative has seen businesses from a range of sectors commit to investing in future talent and helping tackle local skills shortages through apprenticeships.
Becs Ponting, business relationship manager at Wiltshire College & University Centre, said: “Reaching the 150-pledge target so quickly is incredible and it shows how strongly employers across the region believe in the value of apprenticeships.
“Employers are facing a highly competitive labour market, evolving skills needs and increasing pressure to plan ahead for the future. Apprenticeships offer a sustainable way to grow talent from within, strengthen teams and build loyalty.
“They also bring fresh ideas, energy and new perspectives into organisations. By investing in apprenticeships today, employers are essentially safeguarding their future workforce and contributing to a stronger local economy.”
The campaign was launched in response to growing demand for skilled workers and to make it easier for employers to take on apprentices, with the college offering guidance and support throughout the process.
Businesses that sign up are given tailored support to help ensure apprenticeship programmes are matched to their needs, while giving apprentices the skills and experience needed to succeed in their chosen careers.
Glen Blacker, director at Avonside Engineering, one of the college’s apprenticeship employers, said he hopes other firms will follow suit.
He said: “There’s such a lack of support for young people these days. We felt we had the opportunity to offer two students the chance to get involved with engineering and help develop the next generation of engineers.
“For us, it would have been very difficult to fill those positions, so if more companies can do that it will be great for the future.”
The college said it is continuing to work with both new and existing employer partners to create high-quality apprenticeship opportunities across key sectors including construction, engineering, business, and health and social care.
To mark reaching the 150-pledge target, the college’s business development teamis visiting newly pledged employers across the region this week with cupcakes made by students.
Businesses interested in taking part in the campaign are being encouraged to visit the Wiltshire College & University Centre website for more information.
Picture: Wiltshire College & University Centre’s business development team celebrating reaching the 150-pledge target outside the Trowbridge campus.
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