A Round-Up of the Devon Business Show

On Wednesday 12th June, we exhibited at the Devon Business Show in the Plymouth Pavilions – a high profile forum for local businesses of all sizes to showcase the products and services they offer. We had a big presence at the show with two stands manned by our knowledgeable and friendly team who were on hand to explain the apprenticeship process.

The event provided a brilliant platform for networking, and we spoke to a wide range of diverse businesses throughout the day, from Plymouth City Council to Livewell Southwest. We enjoyed some delicious treats from Peace and Coffee and its beautifully converted Piaggio Ape Van, and were impressed with Citybus’ brand new Enviro 200EV electric bus which was unveiled at the show. We were also delighted to see creativity encouraged in the city through Ignite which asked its visitors to get involved in 3D digital printing and building modelling clay sculptures of recognisable Plymouth landmarks!

We met many new faces who were interested in the business benefits of hiring apprentices or upskilling existing employees, and caught up with some of our current employers, including Plymouth Community Homes, and businesses we already work with, such as St Austell Printing Company.

We finished the day with new contacts, inspiration for business ideas, and plans for 2020’s show – watch this space!

I just wanted to say the biggest thank you to Vanessa, my trainer. You have made my journey so much easier, I don’t know what I would have done without you. You have been amazing and helped me to achieve my qualification. You’ve guided me through every step of the way, I really appreciate it, Vanessa, you have been my rock.

Katie Shorland, Level 2 Hairdressing

I always struggled in school as I wasn’t very academic, so knew learning on the job would be a better option for me. I would find it difficult to get up for 9am but now I wake up and look forward to my day. I wanted to try a hair apprenticeship as I’ve always been interested in hairdressing, and by the end of the first week, I already loved it!

Jaimee Benson, Level 2 Hairdressing

I have developed a range of new skills through work including the technical, industry skills required for the job, to personal development such as ensuring I am always on time. The biggest change since leaving school is adjusting to the independence you gain from earning a salary. My advice to anyone thinking of doing an apprenticeship would be find what you like doing, and go for it!

Will Birch, Level 2 Bricklaying

Since starting the apprenticeship, I’ve become far more confident. In a classroom, you only interact with your classmates, but through working you develop your people skills as you interact with customers on a daily basis. At school, you are closely monitored and parented, however I am now more independent and feel grown up

Sam Collard, Level 2 Light Vehicle and Maintenance Repair

The most important thing I’ve learnt since leaving school is that there are other routes to success than just academia. I failed my GCSEs, as I never suited the school environment. Now though, I’m really enjoying my apprenticeship as I’ve discovered I learn more through hands-on practice.

Ben Freeman, Level 2 Carpentry

I would just like to thank you and your team for all the amazing work they do, you have provided me with the most invaluable experience which has helped to pave the way of my future. The work you do for young people is incredible!

Luke Kowalski, Teaching Assistant and former apprentice at Sir Robert Gefferys School