GMCA supporting SME’s at the National Apprenticeship Show

More than 70 of the country’s leading employers will be showcasing their apprenticeship opportunities at this year’s National Apprenticeship Show.

The event, taking place at the Bolton Arena on Wednesday, October 17 and Thursday, October 18 is an opportunity for individuals to come face-to-face with the massive range of apprenticeships available.

Over 16,000 school children, parents, teachers and ‘work ready’ individuals are expected to attend the two-day event to capture the opportunity to discuss in person the career paths offered by employers.

The Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) are hosting a dedicated small-to-medium enterprise (SME) zone at the show to highlight the phenomenal range of opportunities available across Greater Manchester in employers of all sizes and sectors.

Businesses have been invited to join the GMCA in the SME zone to showcase their opportunities as part of the breadth of fantastic apprenticeships available across the city region.

Approximately 80 per cent of apprenticeship opportunities in Greater Manchester are within small-to-medium enterprises and they are essential in ensuring our people have the best possible opportunities to start or develop their career.

Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, said:

“The National Apprenticeship Show is a fantastic opportunity for young people to find out the apprenticeships available to them.

“I want to ensure that everyone in Greater Manchester has the chance to get on in life and the best way to do this is by giving people the right skills alongside great employment and apprenticeship opportunities.

“This event is helping us to get a step closer to preparing our young people for the world of work by making them aware of the brilliant opportunities that are available in our dynamic regional economy.”

Councillor Sean Fielding, Leader of Oldham Council and GMCA lead for Education and Skills, said:

“Everyone learns and develops differently. For some, a more practical approach to learning is a better fit and is a more effective way for them to fulfill their potential.

“That’s why good quality apprenticeships should be available for every young person in Greater Manchester. I’m delighted that the GMCA has its own SME zone and is bringing a whole host of fantastic local businesses together to showcase their apprenticeship opportunities for young people in our region.

“We need to build on this and continue to strengthen the link between education and business so young people get the opportunities they deserve and employers get the skills they need locally.”

The National Apprenticeship Show takes place at The Bolton Arena on Wednesday, October 17 and Thursday, October 18.

The event is open from 9.30am until 3.00pm and 4pm until 6pm on Wednesday and from 9.30am until 2pm on the Thursday.