Record crowds as hundreds discover career opportunities with 70 leading employers
Hartlepool College welcomed up to 70 employers and hundreds of attendees to our 19th BIG Apprenticeship Event on Thursday evening, with the college packed out for what was possibly the most well-attended event in its history.
Running from 5pm-8pm, the college buzzed with exciting conversations and connections taking place between employers, lecturers, current learners, and future apprentices, as attendees were invited to explore the wide range of opportunities on offer. From construction and engineering to marketing, healthcare, hairdressing, and beyond, there was no shortage of pathways and possibilities for young people to discover their future careers with employers ready to invest in the next generation of talent.
We were privileged to speak to Willmott Dixon apprentice Charlie, currently completing his HNC in Building Studies having previously completed his T Level in Design, Surveying and Planning, both at Hartlepool College. "Through the T Level, I gained the skills and experience that enabled me to become an apprentice," Charlie told us. Charlie was joined by his colleagues Chris Garrett - Construction Manager, a former Hartlepool College student and apprentice himself, and Anthony Dodd - Senior Social Value Leader, both exhibiting at the BIG Apprenticeship Event to showcase Willmott Dixon's apprenticeship opportunities and management training programme. "We're here to give back to the younger generation, and give them an essential step in their career pathway," said Chris.
The diversity of industries represented at the event highlighted the breadth of apprenticeship routes available across the Tees Valley suiting every talent and interest. Jessica Williams, Founder of Just Williams, a marketing and sales agency based in Teesside, was among the employers exhibiting. "I'm absolutely delighted to celebrate National Apprenticeship Week and see such an amazing range of sectors represented this evening," said Jessica. "There are so many opportunities showcased here tonight for young people to discover the incredible businesses and careers available right here in the Tees Valley."
Also represented were Higher Education opportunities delivered locally at the College as part of the Teesside University College Partnership, with our Level 4, 5 and 6 offers forming part of the rich array of qualifications that can be undertaken alongside an apprenticeship. Catherine Wright, Higher Education Lead & Quality Enhancement Manager at HCFE, and Sufri Weithers, Senior Development and Partnerships Lead at Teesside University, highlighted the opportunities TUCP can offer to students in Hartlepool. "This event represents a great opportunity to support our College partner and provide some insights to individuals about how they can get the most out of their College courses, and how these feed into opportunities at the University," said Sufri. Catherine added, "It's been lovely to meet all the students attending this evening, finding out what subject areas they're interested in, and discussing their progression routes from Levels 2 and 3 all the way through to Higher Education."
As the college celebrates the success of its 19th BIG Apprenticeship Event, planning is already underway for the landmark 20th event next year.
"We're incredibly grateful to all the employers who attended and gave their time to meet with our students and prospective apprentices," said Chris King, Head of Apprenticeships at Hartlepool College. "Their support and enthusiasm made the event the success it was. We'd also like to thank all College staff who supported the event, including our Hospitality and Catering team who provided refreshments, and our fantastic Student Ambassadors who helped manage and support guests throughout the evening."
Whatever your interests and strengths, there's likely an apprenticeship pathway that fits. Hartlepool College is proud to help connect people with these life-changing opportunities - contact us today to find out where your journey could begin.
