Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week

Apprenticeships provide a unique route into employment, combining high-quality training with real, paid work. They allow learners to gain recognised qualifications, hands-on experience and the confidence that comes from applying skills in real workplaces. For employers, apprenticeships are a proven way to build a skilled, motivated workforce that can respond to both current needs and future challenges.

Furness College works with almost 200 employers, supporting over 400 apprentices across Barrow and beyond. We offer apprenticeships across 10 sectors and 21 apprenticeship standards, including higher apprenticeships, ensuring opportunities are available for people at all stages of their career. Whether someone is taking their first step into work, retraining as an adult, or upskilling within their current role, apprenticeships offer flexible and accessible pathways into sustainable employment.

Our strength lies in partnership. By working closely with local and regional employers, we ensure our apprenticeship programmes are relevant, up to date and aligned with real industry needs. This approach means apprentices develop not only technical expertise, but also the transferable skills employers value most: communication, teamwork, problem-solving and professionalism, truly delivering skills for life.

For apprentices, the impact of learning in the workplace is clear. Production Chef Apprentice Royan Walker explains:

“I have already learnt things that you can only get in a workplace, like communicating with colleagues, timekeeping and being proactive. The practical learning works for me. You are on your feet all day and it is not easy work, but I am learning every day and I am being paid.”

Employer involvement is equally central to success. Carolyn Valentine, Lead Specialist at Lloyd’s Register highlights the value of working with Furness College:

“We can thoroughly recommend the team at Furness College. As a business new to recruiting and supporting apprentices, the guidance and ongoing support from the College has been invaluable. It’s been great to see how the off-the-job learning links directly with the skills our apprentices develop in the workplace, creating a joined-up approach to training.”

National Apprenticeship Week, “Skills for Life,” perfectly reflects the long-term value apprenticeships bring to individuals, employers and communities. At Furness College, we are proud to be leading the way, supporting local businesses, developing future talent and transforming lives through apprenticeships.

As National Apprenticeship Week is marked across the country, we encourage potential learners and employers to explore the opportunities available and discover how apprenticeships can help shape a stronger future for our region.

For more information drop in:

Apprenticeships Open Evening, Thursday 12^th February, 5.00-7.00pm, Channelside

Cross College Open Event, Saturday 7^th March, 10am – 12noon, Channelside