Spotlight on Opportunities at SERC for NI Apprenticeship Week

SERC is gearing up for Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Week, 7 - 11 February 2022. Led by the Department for the Economy, the annual week-long celebration aims to raise the profile of apprenticeships across Northern Ireland.

William Greer, Chief Training & Contracts Officer, SERC said. “NI Apprenticeship Week is a key event in the College calendar. The initiative gives us a greater platform to share success stories from some of the 1250 apprentices and 170 Higher Level Apprentices who choose SERC to gain their Apprenticeship qualifications, along with the 950 employers who work in partnership with the College to offer apprenticeships in subjects ranging from Accountancy and Childcare to Fire and Security Systems as well as new apprenticeships including Glass and Glazing and Polymers to meet the demands of the local economy.”

He added, “SERC’s week of activities will demonstrate the benefits of becoming an apprentice, both to young people and their parents through our Have a Go Sessions at each of our main campuses in Bangor, Downpatrick, Lisburn and Newtownards and Ask Me Anything Q & A Sessions for employers and apprentices. We are also hosting Webinar Sessions to include new apprenticeships in Business Administration and Travel Services and will be hosting a facilities tour and presentation for engineering employers.” He concluded, “Our schedule of activities will showcase how apprenticeships can work to strengthen and grow businesses, communities and the wider economy during and beyond these challenging times.”

Lauren Johnston (23), from Ballygowan, a Level 3 Engineering Apprentice with SERC and employed by Diageo Belfast Packaging, is a finalist in the Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Awards 2022 - a key part of the NI Apprenticeship Week – Winners will be announced at a ceremony on 9 February.

Potential apprentices, their parents and employers are invited to register for events and see full details.

We'll be sharing testimonials from several SERC Apprentices during NI Apprenticeship Week on our news section so check back to see what they have to say about their apprenticeship journey.

Pictured above:

Bryson Kearney (19, from Annalong), a Level 2 Engineering Apprentice employed by John Kearney Ltd, Kilkeel helps launch NI Apprenticeship Week at SERC with William Greer, Chief Training & Contracts Officer, SERC.