Representing more than 10 sectors, from accounting to adult care and engineering to hair professionals, apprentices will come together with friends and family for the ceremony at the County Showground in Stafford on Tuesday, 15 July.
Now in its tenth year, the Staffordshire Apprenticeship Graduation recognises the achievements of the county’s apprentices and their contribution to the local economy.
Dave Chetwynd from Tamworth is a Children and Families practitioner in the Children’s Residential Care team at Staffordshire County Council.
Dave said: “I’ve just completed my level 4 apprenticeship and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the course.
“I found the apprenticeship route to be a great way to develop my skills and extend my knowledge in my sector to a high level. This blend of academic learning, combined with actually doing the job is a good way of getting good at your job while developing a career.
“I’ve also been lucky enough to have a very supportive tutor and management team to learn from and I’m grateful for the opportunity. I’m now looking forward to the graduation ceremony in the summer.”
In 2024 more than 6,000 Staffordshire apprentices started their training at local businesses. The Ladder for Staffordshire, which champions apprenticeships with business, has seen over 500 apprentices come through this scheme.
Martin Murray, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills at Staffordshire County Council, said: “Apprentices make a huge contribution to our economy and it’s great to be celebrating their achievements.
“Having a skilled workforce means we’re able to attract good employers and major investment to the county. This is our 10th Apprenticeship Graduation and over the years we have seen over 1,000 apprentices attend the events. This year’s will be a grand event and a great opportunity for apprentices to take centre stage, just like traditional university graduates.”
One Staffordshire business committed to apprenticeships is Stone-based Capula Ltd. Steve Tellwright, People and Quality Director, will be attending the graduation ceremony and said:
“Apprenticeships are key to the growth of our business and we hope to take on a further 60 over the next three years. It’s so important that we have a steady pipeline of the right people with the right skill base and behaviours, and apprenticeships give us that. The apprenticeship graduation is a great way of promoting the benefits of apprenticeships and celebrating those who have completed one.”
The ceremony is open to anyone from Staffordshire completing their apprenticeship this year and they can book a place at the event on the Graduation website.
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 the apprenticeship option should visit the Staffordshire Jobs and Careers Service.