Leicester College and local employers to showcase apprenticeship opportunities at Apprenticeship Fair 2025

Leicester College will be hosting its annual Apprenticeship Fair from 1-5pm on Wednesday 12 February 2025 at its Freemen's Park Campus.

The Apprenticeship Fair will help people to find out about the opportunities provided by apprenticeships and also meet with a wide range of employers who are looking to recruit new apprentices to their teams.

Local employers from sectors such as business administration, commis chef, construction, customer service and management courses, engineering and manufacturing, hairdressing and motor vehicles, will be present at the Apprenticeship Fair including:

• Leicester Employment Hub

• Nylacast

• Oliveti Group

• Winstanley

• Adey Steel

• UHL Pharmacy

• Covelec

• Yunex

• Hilton Hotel

• EMH Homes

• JC Metalworks

• ADS Laser

• Aaron Services

Leicester College’s apprenticeships and careers teams, as well as qualified Skills Coaches will be available at the event to help people with any questions. Book your place here.

Mackenzie Bloxham is on the two-year Carpentry and Joinery (Bench) Apprenticeship Level 2 at Leicester College, with a work placement at Oliveti, one of the Midlands' leading construction companies. Here, he gets to learn how to use traditional woodworking tools as well as specialised power or hand tools for cutting, shaping, smoothing and finishing.

Talking about his decision to start an apprenticeship, Mackenzie says: “I originally wasn't sure what I wanted to do, but I've always liked the idea of making something. I went to Leicester College and looked at the apprenticeship, and thought that I wanted to do that. When you make stuff, it's nice to see the finished product.

“The whole apprenticeship has been enjoyable. It's all good fun and I can produce quality work as well. I've improved my hand skills and experience in working with machines. There's always stuff that you can learn so I’m keeping going and improving myself until I feel like I'm ready for something bigger.”

Oliveti Group is passionate about engaging with and nurturing new talent in the construction industry. The company believes that supporting apprenticeships is a key part of building a skilled and sustainable workforce for the future.

Talking about the importance of apprenticeships, Gareth Smith, Director at Oliveti Group says: “Hiring apprentices is something that we've always done. From a young age, we've grown the company to what it is today, and we always had a passion about bringing the next generation into the industry.

“When we’re looking for a potential apprentice, it's generally somebody that shows desire, a willingness to do well, strong communication skills, and a good attitude towards work.

“Apprentices have had a massive impact on our company. We're fortunate to have three or four really good students that have turned into really big assets for the business.”

Rachel Hall, Director for Apprenticeships at Leicester College added: “Apprenticeships are a powerful way to build a career while earning and learning. At Leicester College, we are passionate about helping individuals unlock their potential through hands-on experience and high-quality training.

“Our upcoming Apprenticeship Fair is a fantastic opportunity for students, parents, and community members to explore the diverse range of apprenticeship programmes available and connect with leading employers in the region. Attendees can meet employers, engage directly with businesses offering apprenticeship opportunities across various industries, and speak with apprenticeship experts to discuss career pathways and the skills for which employers are looking.”