Apprentice 18 was aimed at raising awareness of apprenticeship opportunities
Held at Ravensbourne University on 27 June and initiated by The Stationers’ Company, Apprentice 18 was aimed at raising awareness of apprenticeship opportunities in the content and communications industries.
The event was well-attended, with companies including Heidelberg, CPI Print, the BPIF, Ricoh, Park Communications and Premier Paper Group setting up stall for the 400-plus Year 10 and 12 students from academies across Greater London.
Peter Day, broadcaster and Stationer, and Matthew Postgate, chief technology and product officer, BBC, kicked off proceedings, introducing the day with real experiences from four apprentices of participating companies. There was a real enthusiasm to encourage young people into considering their futures and looking to a wider range of opportunities other than academic degrees.
Alison Branch, Park Communications managing director, commented, ‘Park is committed to training the next generation of print professionals. We provide our apprentices with support, training and real hands-on experience.’
Students were split into groups to visit stalls for set discussion slots based on a “speed-dating” model, with each group of students moving to the next company every 10 minutes. Existing apprentices and staff were on hand to answer questions.
Helen Esmonde, chair of the education committee, and past master of The Stationers’ Company, said, ‘We hope to provide a model for future events to promote apprenticeships.’
Follow this link for more information about education opportunities provided by The Stationers’ Company, including Stationers’ Crown Woods Academy.
