Barnsley College launches online resources and events to celebrate National Apprenticeship Week 2021

8th February 2021

To celebrate National Apprenticeship Week 2021 (8 – 14 February), Barnsley College will be offering online resources and hosting special events for prospective students and regional employers.

The College will launch its Virtual Apprenticeship Hub at www.barnsley.ac.uk/NAW2021 on Monday 8 February at 1.00pm, featuring the benefits of studying for an apprenticeship and how to apply; benefits to employers, courses and vacancies currently available and case studies from both employers and apprentices. 

A series of free live online events will include:

• Getting to Know Apprenticeships - The Student Perspective: A webinar for prospective apprentices to hear about courses, current vacancies, funding and the application process. This event will take place via Zoom on Tuesday 9 February at 10.00am and will feature a live Q&A session. 
• Two Question and Answer sessions for those who are about to leave school and wish to learn more about apprenticeships: These events will take place on Tuesday 9 February at 3.00pm and Thursday 11 February at 4.00pm.
• An online Employer Open Event: Taking place via Zoom on Friday 12 February at 2.30pm, this webinar will cover apprenticeships and other courses available to employers for workforce growth and development and will feature a live question and answer session. 

For more info and to join the above events visit: www.barnsley.ac.uk/events.  

Angela Kerley, Assistant Principal - Apprenticeships at Barnsley College, said: “National Apprenticeship Week is the perfect time to offer information and guidance to the next generation of apprentices, whilst celebrating the successes of those who are completing or have completed their programme.

“Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, we are seeing a sustained interest and enrolment in apprenticeships. Our goal is to continue working with local, regional, and national businesses to understand the skills our students need to progress in their careers, and ultimately help support the rebuilding of the national economy.” 

Apprenticeships and Skills Minister Gillian Keegan added: “Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to learn while you earn, opening up new career paths that can change lives. They will play a vital role in our Plan for Jobs, helping to create and protect jobs as we build back better in 2021 and beyond. 

“Throughout the pandemic apprentices have continued to step up to the mark, providing vital services often in challenging circumstances. National Apprenticeship Week is a great opportunity to highlight how apprenticeships help businesses to access new talent from all backgrounds and transform lives. We also want to shine a light on those employers and apprentices who have continued to go above and beyond during this time. 

“I strongly encourage everyone to take part and spread the word about the amazing apprenticeships on offer, at all levels and in sectors from cyber security to accounting."

Barnsley College is working with businesses to lead the economic recovery and meet employers’ needs, both now and for future roles, by providing students and adults with the skills to succeed.

Barnsley College offers over 70 apprenticeship pathways at various levels in dozens of industries, including Accountancy, Engineering, Hair and Beauty, Management, Teaching and Warehousing and Logistics. To see the full apprenticeship course listings, visit: www.barnsley.ac.uk/apprenticeships