Solihull Apprenticeship Show

Solihull Apprenticeship Show 2023-2024

With over 2,000 visitors in the last show at Cranmore Park, Solihull Apprenticeship Show is a popular event among students who are looking for entry-level jobs or apprenticeships as an alternative route for further education or work.

The show is a great opportunity to:

• Learn all about apprenticeships and entry-level jobs opportunities
• Discover a variety of sectors and meet employers and training providers to discuss opportunities up to degree level 
• Speak with apprentices to hear about their experiences
• Find out about the application process, where to find advertised apprenticeships and when employers open their recruitment windows 

This academic year we are delivering two Apprenticeship Show's. Our first show was on 24 October 2023. The second show will be held during National Apprenticeship Week on 7 February 2024 at North Solihull Sports Centre.

Have a look at the list of exhibitors with this link and get better prepared.

Sign up with this link now if you have not done so!

Exhibitors

If you are a local employer and/or training provider and you are interested in exhibiting at this event please email lifeready@solihull.gov.uk and we will email you a booking form.   

Getting to the event

The event is being held at North Solihull Sports Centre, Conway Road, Fordbridge B37 5LA

Free parking is available onsite.   

Get directions

Useful information

You can drop-in any time between 4:00 – 8:00pm

Average visit time is over an hour, depending on how many exhibitors you want to talk to and how much preparation you have done (see useful guides below)

In previous years the show has been busiest from 4:00-5:30pm

Show Sponsors

We have three organisations sponsoring the show:

JLR

Engineering degree apprentice Beth tells us what it’s like to be a degree apprentice at JLR

"I joined JLR as an APEP apprentice and I am currently in my second year. I am currently working within the ‘NVH testing’ department which stands for Noise, Vibration & Harshness and quite simply we focus on sound testing. I get to work with a range of different departments on a variety of vehicles and we set up equipment and undertake a variety of different tests on the vehicles to test for noises and identify what could be causing the issue.

I have had a few placements in Vehicle safety testing and Prototype CAD design, which were great opportunities and gave me a real insight into the company as a whole, but I always love coming back to my home team and continuing to learn everything I can.

My team have been so welcoming to me since I joined and have encouraged and helped me to get involved with as much as I possibly can. This sense of encouragement, support and unity; together with the unique equipment and bespoke working environment is what makes my team stand out.

Coming straight out from my A-Levels I was nervous about moving to such a big company but right from the moment I entered the assessment day interview, I received nothing but re-assuring help and support which have now really allowed to me to flourish and come out of my shell. All this support is what has allowed me to feel comfortable and confident enough to go out and volunteer at the early career’s events to help spread awareness to others who are likely thinking all the same things I thought before I joined.

I’ve even been lucky enough to have won a ‘Rising Star award’ last month from our Women in Engineering and Allies network for the volunteering work I have been doing as an early career’s ambassador which is definitely not something I ever thought I could do a year ago before I joined!"

Start your career journey with us, discover more here: http://ow.ly/eu7w50HBemo

Solihull College & University Centre

Harry Scolding, 20, who runs his own company HDS Joinery, has just returned from Poland where he represented the UK with his carpentry skills, in the EuroSkills Championships.

He received a medal of Excellence in joinery, and finished in the top 5. He comments: “The adrenalin runs high when you compete – I was surround by the UK support team and my parents had flown over too – Mum was in bits when I was awarded my medal, she was so proud as she knows how hard I’ve worked – I really want to go to the WorldSkills next year as it’s my last chance to take the big prize.”

Harry started his journey with a Level 2 Apprenticeship. His tutor at Woodlands, Arron Ward is delighted Harry is reaching his potential: “Harry exhibited a mastery of his craft that left spectators in awe. His performances in the European finals in Gdansk were nothing short of spectacular, demonstrating an unparalleled level of expertise and a keen understanding of the art of Bench joinery.

It has been an absolute pleasure to watch Harry grow and flourish, both as a student and a competitor. His drive and enthusiasm have made him a joy to teach. As his tutor, I couldn’t be prouder of his achievements so far, and I have every confidence that he will continue to shine in the world finals in Lyon in 2024.”

Solihull Council - HR Employment Services

 

Anisha Sall case study - SMBC

“Initially going to university seemed the best route to reach my desired future profession, however after researching about accounting apprenticeships, I soon realised that the benefits far outweighed those of going to university. The biggest advantage is gaining valuable practical experience and simultaneously gaining an AAT qualification.

I initially undertook a week’s work experience with the Finance team at Solihull Council whilst I was still at sixth form and enjoyed the experience.

I then started looking at apprenticeships and after successfully applying for an apprenticeship, I joined the Council as an AAT Apprentice. Coming straight from sixth form into a work environment seemed quite daunting at first, however the team made me feel extremely welcome. I have had the opportunity to work within several different teams and apply the academic content learnt at college to a variety of tasks completed. I have now started a new role as an Accounting Technician and throughout the whole experience my knowledge and understanding of accountancy has vastly developed.  I started my initial apprenticeship at level 2 and have subsequently taken and passed level 2, level 3 and level 4 in accounting.

I have just started my level 7 to become a fully qualified accountant, and this has all been undertaken whilst working and earning.

I have really enjoyed my time at Solihull Council and hope I have the opportunity to gain further qualifications!”

Sub sponsor 

We have one sub sponsor for the show:

Graham

Callum Freeman is an Apprentice Carpenter at Graham. 
“I am doing a carpentry apprenticeship and I am just over a year into it. I found my apprenticeship with GRAHAM through someone I know that works for Solihull Council.
“I wanted to do an apprenticeship because I feel like it's good for a young person because you get on the job experience while getting paid, which I feel is better than going to university or college. I like the on-site experience which you can't really get from university or college.  
“To be honest I'm doing a bit of everything daily loads of different trades that will help me in the long run however it's mostly carpentry. I am enjoying my apprenticeship with GRAHAM, I feel like I'm fitting in more with the lads every day and they have all been very welcoming and friendly which makes work better because you can have a laugh with them. 
“I would recommend going down the apprenticeship route because it gives you a lot of life skills and it’s enjoyable being on site working.”

Frequently asked questions

What is an Apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships are paid employment with accredited training programmes that are designed to help employers train people for specific job roles.  At the same time, apprentices get a salary with valuable training while they work towards a nationally recognised apprenticeship standard or framework.

Can I apply for an apprenticeship at the event?

No, this is an information event, a chance to meet employers, find out about the apprenticeships they offer, ask questions and chat to apprentices about their experiences

More on Apprenticeships:

These handy guides will help you prepare for the show and get the most out of the event.

Apprenticeship Pack for 16-19 year olds: Your step-by-step guide to apprenticeships. Research your options and make an informed choice Click here

Guidance for Parents and Carers: Download this hints and tips document to help parents and carers explore the various options available.  Click Here

Join in the conversation on social media: @LifeReadyEAN #SolAppShow24