WILTSHIRE College & University Centre is celebrating a major milestone in its ambitious 150 in 100 campaign, having reached its target ahead of schedule – and is now raising the bar even higher.
The campaign which set out to secure 150 new apprenticeship opportunities in 100 days, has exceeded expectations thanks to strong support from employers across the region.
In response, the Business Development team are extending the campaign to 200 apprenticeship pledges in 100 days, calling on even more businesses to get involved.
Becs Ponting, Business Relationship Manager 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 150 in 100 campaign was launched on 10 February during National Apprenticeship Week to respond to growing demand for skilled workers and to make it easier for employers to take on apprentices, with guidance and support throughout the process.
Employers who pledge to take on an apprentice benefit from tailored support from the College, ensuring programmes are aligned with business needs while giving apprentices the skills and experience required to succeed in their chosen careers.
The initiative has brought together employers from a wide range of sectors, all committing to invest in future talent and help address local skills needs through apprenticeships.
Glen Blacker, Director from Avonside Engineering, one of the College’s apprenticeship employers, encourages other business to get involved. 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 team are continuing to work closely 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.
In celebration of successfully reaching their 150-pledge target the team are visiting newly pledged employers across the region with student-made cupcakes this week.
Are you a business interested in taking on an apprentice?
Get involved in 200 in 100 – Pledge today. Grow tomorrow.
We’d love to hear from you! Big or small – we’re here to support you every step of the way.
