Students at Ron Dearing UTC met representatives from some of the region’s leading businesses at the school’s annual apprenticeship expo as they consider their next steps.
Sixteen founding and employer partners of the UTC set up information stands in the school’s conference centre before speaking to almost 300 students about careers, apprenticeships and opportunities available to them in industry.
Many of the UTC’s alumni, who are already succeeding in their chosen careers, returned to speak to current students, sharing their knowledge and expertise after following similar paths.
Current students were able to ask questions and meet the faces behind the businesses while gaining vital information ahead of apprenticeship and job applications.
Year 13 student Mason Creighton, 17, said: “The expo was really useful because I found out more about how apprenticeships work and lots of information about the different companies which attended.”
Year 12 student Ruby Ellis, 16, said: “The expo gave me a good insight into what opportunities are available to us. I really enjoyed it and it was great to meet so many different people.”
Mercy McFarlane, 18, a former RDUTC student now working as an Operations Engineering Apprentice at Founding Partner Smith+Nephew joined her colleagues to speak to current students at the expo.
She said: “Seeing where I started, understanding where the current students are now and helping to guide them on the right path is good feeling.
“I loved being a Ron Dearing student and it helped me to get to where I am today. I love my apprenticeship and I’m working on some really exciting projects.”
Corbin Wright, Business Development Manager at CDS Energy Services, a Major Partner of Ron Dearing UTC, was among those who attended the expo.
He said: “I spoke to quite a few students and they were very enthusiastic. I’m really impressed by the expo.
“There is a massive labour shortage in our industry and it’s important that everyone gets on board to try and bridge that gap.”
Steve Davies, Technical Director at Fisher Security, also a Major Partner of the UTC, said: “I spoke to students about the technology which is available in the security industry and how it can help our customers. It was great to meet them and a brilliant opportunity for them to learn more about what opportunities are out there.”
Ron Dearing UTC ensures its students are as prepared as possible for the world or work, university and any other path they choose to take upon leaving school.
Students take part in mock interview sessions with employers, learn about their personal brand and are given top tips on CV preparation ahead of applications.
Glenn Jensen, Senior Assistant Principal – Employer Engagement at Ron Dearing UTC, said: “The response from businesses has been outstanding and it’s fantastic to see such a diverse range of employers investing time to grow and nurture local talent. We’re really grateful to all of them.
“It was also brilliant to see so many of our alumni come back to talk about their experiences and help to inspire the next generation.”
Companies represented at the apprenticeship expo were:
- Siemens Gamesa
- Smith+Nephew
- Spencer Group
- Reckitt
- CATCH
- CDS Energy Services
- Cranswick
- Fisher Security
- Ideal Heating
- IRISNDT
- Litmus
- LSTC Group
- Porsche Centre Hull
- Quickline
- Ridings Consulting Engineers
- Wood