This week is National Apprenticeships Week 2022 in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The 15th annual week-long celebration of apprenticeships will see events take place across the UK bringing together many stakeholders involved in the week.
This year’s theme is Build the Future, and we caught up with a few of our Charter signatories and their apprentices to understand how they’re marking the week.
ADS
ADS is the trade association for UK aerospace, defence, security and space companies and has more than 1,100 members. Throughout NAW ADS is showcasing apprentices from their member companies and are also hosting a one-off ‘Apprenticeships Unlocked’ webinar highlighting the opportunities available within their sectors. You can keep up to date with ADS’ activity through its Twitter and LinkedIn channels and blog posts.
Meet Elin Esnard, Technical Apprentice, Leonardo
During the summer of her first year at sixth form, Elin completed a week’s work experience at Leonardo and loved it. However, after leaving college without the grades she wanted, Elin had no idea how she could become an engineer having chosen not to go to university… until she looked at apprenticeships. After successfully applying to Leonardo, Elin cannot recommend an apprenticeship enough detailing how they support her dyslexic learning style. Her biggest piece of advice is “to stop worrying about what people think, don’t dwell on your low points, be yourself and show off your best qualities!” Find out about apprenticeships with Leonardo here.
Meet Mia Pitman, Hardware Engineering Apprentice, Thales
Mia has always had a passion for fixing, building and designing things which increased following a GSCE in Engineering and underpinned her decision to leave school at 16. Following her departure from school, Mia joined Thales as a Hardware Engineering Apprentice. When asked if Mia would recommend an apprenticeship she says: “I could not recommend them enough, you gain valuable workplace experience, a qualification and have access to many opportunities, another perk is you are also being paid to learn!” Find out about apprenticeships at Thales here
Meet Holly Smith, Aeronautical Manufacturing Apprentice, Safran
Holly chose to do an apprenticeship as she was keen to be in “hands-on manufacturing environment” where she can physically produce the components. When asked about the benefits of an apprenticeship, Holly said an “apprenticeship is the best way to get into the industry and business” and is very excited for the future with Safran. Find out about apprenticeships available with Safran.
We hope all of our signatories have a fantastic week for National Apprenticeship Week 2022. Don’t forget to follow our activity on Twitter and LinkedIn where we will be sharing all things NAW 2022.
Blog written by Joscelyn Turner, Media and PR Officer ADS and Communications Work Package volunteer for Women in Aviation and Aerospace Charter.