As part of Apprenticeship Week (6-12 February, 2023), Andrew visited UA92 and Trafford College to meet a range of apprentices.

During the visit, Andrew toured UA92 and learned about the apprenticeships being offered in partnership with JD and Pixel Kicks. With these courses, apprentices are able to work straightaway, rather than wait the years it takes to graduate from traditional routes.

Pixel Kicks, a small local company, explained how they have taken on seven apprentices, five of whom continue to work for them, meaning they develop the skills that the business needs.

JD explained that they value the modern approach of UA92, and also the soft skills that are built into the apprenticeships.

Andrew Western said: “Before becoming MP, I was the Digital Lead for the GMCA, where I saw how skills shortages were affecting the growth of businesses, so it was great to see the bespoke apprenticeships being offered at UA92, especially those being offered alongside JD and Pixel Kicks.

“We met a range of apprentices including Nick, who had worked in retail for ten years and wanted to move into Digital, while continuing to work. Ikra, who preferred a skills-based approach to classroom teaching, and Keenan, who was looking for career development after completing his degree.

“I’m looking forward to following Nick, Ikra and Keenan’s progress – I’m sure they will go far.”

During the visit, Andrew also met the electrical engineers of the future. At Trafford College, there are around 1,000 students learning engineering, plumbing, mechanics and other vocational skills.
Teachers explained that further education is key to social mobility, and the apprenticeship route is extremely popular with students who want to work while also learning new skills.

UA92 and Trafford Collage are always looking for more employers who can take on apprentices, so get in touch with the college if you have a small business that could support a young person through their development.

Labour plans to set up a new national skills taskforce: Skills England, to bring together businesses, training providers and unions to meet skill shortages both nationally and locally. A ‘Growth and Skills Levy’ will be introduced on larger businesses, to enable essential investment in training and apprenticeships so there are more opportunities are available. They will also introduce more entry level digital skills training, to tackle key skills gaps.