Apprentices get ready to celebrate 10 years of graduation ceremonies
More than 150 apprentices along with local employers will gather for the Staffordshire Apprenticeship Graduation ceremony on 15 July, marking 10 years of the celebration.
Over 1,000 apprentices have graduated from the ceremonies since the launch of the event back in 2015. In the same period, more than 74,000 people started an apprenticeship in Staffordshire.
Sue Oliver from East Staffordshire has completed her Level 6 in Social Work and is looking forward to attending the graduation.
The 46-year-old, who works for the county council’s Fostering Service, said: “Doing an apprenticeship really is a great way to achieve your career goals and I had amazing support from everyone involved.
“It has prepared me well for social work, with the academic work at university one day a week and then the placements offering invaluable hands-on experience and learning.
“I’d definitely urge others to consider going down the apprenticeship road. It’s a great way of getting both the qualification and the experience all at the same time.”
Research shows that apprenticeships benefit Staffordshire's economy, which gains £21 for every £1 spent on an apprenticeship while helping fill skills gaps across various industries. In addition to benefiting the economy, Studies also show that apprenticeships can lead to increased earnings up to £12,000 upon completion.
Martin Murray, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills at Staffordshire County Council, said: “We’re incredibly excited about celebrating our latest graduating apprentices and ten years of excellence across Staffordshire.
“The benefits of apprenticeships for businesses, apprentices and the economy as a whole is crystal clear for all to see. We support anything that encourages more people to do an apprenticeship and applaud those that come out the other side brimming with skill, confidence and purpose. We’re also committed to making sure that Staffordshire companies are aware of the benefits of taking on apprentices and that they get the support they need to do this.”
Employers interested in taking on an apprentice can get support from Ladder for Staffordshire - Creating new Apprenticeships or by calling 03332 409 699.
Anyone interested in exploring apprenticeship opportunities in Staffordshire should visit the Staffordshire Jobs and Careers Service.
