The CII was heavily involved in the recent National Apprenticeship Week as George Tsounias reveals-¦
This year's theme for the 12th annual National Apprenticeship Week -- 'Blaze a Trail' -- aimed to highlight the benefits of apprenticeships to employers, individuals, local communities and the economy. This year, more than ever, we saw a positive change of attitude in the way apprenticeships are viewed by the wider public.
For too long, students have been encouraged to apply to university without the consideration of other, more suitable, alternatives. The message that university is not the only route to a successful career is really starting to get through and it is a change that is ultimately driven by key decision-makers in a young person's life; the parents or guardians and the schools.
To mark the week-long celebration, events took place up and down the country.
NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP SHOW -- SANDOWN PARK
On 5 and 6 April, the CII exhibited at the National Apprenticeship Show for London and the southeast at Sandown Park. With more than 100 exhibitors, this apprenticeship event was organised to provide schools, individuals and the wider community with the opportunity to hear and speak to current apprentices and to understand the wealth of opportunities available in the apprenticeship world.
37K reach across Discover Risk social media during NAW2019
With an estimated 15,000 attendees across the two days, we spoke with attendees about opportunities in the world of risk and personal finance at entry level. It was nice to see students approaching stands with an open mind and leaving perceptions at the door to find out more about different professions.
With the help of the CII's relationship executive Rhian Morris, along with current Lloyd's apprentices Kieron Price, Isabel Pratt and Nathan McArthur, there was certainly a buzz around the CII stand. During the course of the two days, we spoke with about 500 people. Attendees really valued listening to current apprentices and how, despite being encouraged to go to university, they had blazed their own trail.
My personal highlight was speaking with the large number of students that approached us independently to find out more about opportunities in risk and personal finance.
ALL FOR ONE-¦
All this would not have been possible without your continued support. Whether you helped at a fair, assisted at a discover event or helped in any way during the week to help raise aspirations and increase awareness, thank you! Without your help, commitment and enthusiasm, our reach and impact would not be as great.
If you took part in an event and want us to share your story in a future edition, please contact me: george.tsounias@cii.co.uk
George Tsounias is relationship manager -- education