SHAPING Portsmouth and its partners are delighted to confirm that the Apprenticeship Bus will once again return to touring the City in 2022.

As part of National Apprenticeship Week from February 7-13, the bus will visit the senior schools of Portsmouth with current Portsmouth apprentices onboard.

National Apprenticeship Week aims to highlight the exceptional work being done by employers and apprentices across the country.

By introducing Year 9-11 students to current apprentices, young people can gain an insight into what life is like as a Portsmouth business apprentice.

Each school visit lasts around one hour, and the students get the chance to hear what the overall apprenticeship programme can offer. The real value is when the students can engage with the apprentices and discover what life is really like for them. 

Lee Butler, programme lead, Shaping Portsmouth, said: “The Apprenticeship Bus can inspire the young people of Portsmouth to do the things that inspire them. First-hand experience with Apprentices is a wonderful opportunity to meet and learn from those who have followed this path to a successful career."

Louise Bateman, Careers Leader, Miltoncross Academy, said: “As part of our aim to ensure all students will aspire for a fulfilling career, the Apprenticeship Bus is an excellent chance for students to explore the option of becoming an apprentice. Being able to meet local apprentices allows them to directly explore real world career options."

Any Portsmouth businesses that have apprentices can join the programme. Apprentices join the school visits during one of the days during the delivery week.

If you would like to find out more and take part, email contactus@shapingportsmouth.co.uk 

Partners helping to deliver this programme are Alphi, The Ask Programme, Portsmouth City Council, Solent Apprenticeship Hub, Stagecoach and University of Portsmouth.