National Apprenticeship Week 2024

At Abbey Grange Academy, we are always seeking to broaden horizons and prepare our students for the dynamic world beyond the classroom. National Apprenticeships Week (NAW), held from the 5th to the 9th of February, provided a fantastic opportunity for us to showcase the apprenticeship possibilities available to our students as they consider their next steps.

This year, at Abbey Grange, we fully embraced the spirit of NAW. On Monday 5th February, we took a group of eager students to the Leeds Apprenticeship Recruitment Fair. With over 100 exhibitors present, the fair provided a comprehensive insight into the array of apprenticeship opportunities. From engineering to healthcare, hospitality to digital marketing, the fair showcased the breadth and depth of apprenticeships available. Our students had the chance to engage directly with industry professionals, gaining first hand knowledge about how apprenticeships function and the potential pathways they offer.

The feedback from our students was overwhelmingly positive. Many said it was an eye-opening experience and has enriched their understanding of post-16 and post-18 options.

Continuing our exploration of apprenticeships, we arranged a visit to local business Zenith in Kirkstall Forge. Zenith, the UK's leading independent vehicle solutions firm, offers a robust apprenticeship scheme offering opportunities across various facets of the business. Our students were able to engage directly with those running these apprenticeships, and gained valuable insights into the program's structure and requirements. They also had the opportunity to hear first hand from current apprentices, who shared their experiences and offered invaluable advice on navigating the transition from school to the workplace.

At Abbey Grange, we recognise that every student is unique, with distinct talents, passions, and aspirations. National Apprenticeships Week serves as a catalyst for us to nurture and support each student's individual journey, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to thrive.

Working in Partnership to Educate, Nurture and Empower our students.