The Big Apprenticeship Event Returns For 2025 In Newry

Return of The Big Apprenticeship event this February as SRC and NMDDC get ready

The Southern Regional College’s Big Apprenticeship Event returns this February at the College’s Newry West Campus on Tuesday 4th February from 5pm to 7:30pm. 

The Big Apprenticeship Event is a one stop shop for those seeking to start a new apprenticeship course from Level 2 to Level 5 from September 2025.

The event seeks to match potential apprentices with employers with over 40 employers and support organisations expected to attend the Newry event. College staff will also be present discussing course modules, entry requirements and assessments.

Also returning to the event this year are student ambassadors from various programmes of study, giving a first-hand account of what it is like being an apprentice and sharing their incredible journeys and giving the low down on the reality of studying whilst being an apprentice.  

Employers, support organisations, lecturing staff and student ambassadors alike will be answering questions from attendees.

Launching The Big Apprenticeship Event for 2025 is SRC CEO Lee Campbell and NMDDC Chairperson Cllr Pete Byrne.  Potential attendees are encouraged to book their FREE ticket using the Eventbrite link.

Now in its 7th year the Big Apprenticeship Event, run in partnership with Newry Mourne and Down District Council has consistently provided opportunities to young people and adult returners alike to develop skills and gain relevant experience with recruiting employers. 

Apprenticeships and higher level apprenticeships are flexible career pathways providing the chance to earn a salary while pursuing qualifications.  With course fees funded by the Department for the Economy, now has never been a better time to start an apprenticeship or higher level apprenticeship at Southern Regional College. 

Apprenticeships are offered at level 2 and 3 at Southern Regional College in over 30 areas ranging from business, children’s care, construction, engineering, hairdressing & barbering, hospitality & food manufacturing to motor vehicles.

Higher Level Apprenticeships provide participants with recognised foundation and honour degrees, referred to as level 5 and 6 qualifications in 20 subject areas. 

This ranges from accounting, business, finance and marketing, computing, construction, engineering, science, sports & exercise and tourism, hospitality & events management.

The College has successfully run Higher Level Apprenticeship programmes of study for 10 years, providing over 1,200 people with jobs since the inception of the programme. This year could be attendees’ opportunity to add a degree and a new source of employment to their accomplishments.

Lee Campbell, Principal & CEO of Southern Regional College said: “We are delighted to once again host The Big Apprenticeship Event in our local community.  The event provides attendees the unique opportunity to start conversations and directly engage with a wide and varied range of employers.” 

“Attendees will have the opportunity to gather information on the various programmes of study and gain an understanding of the benefits of studying an apprenticeship.  Apprenticeships offer value by combining hands on vocational training, equipping individuals with the skills and experience currently in demand by employers.”

“Whether you are a school leaver, a career changer, or someone seeking professional development, this event promises to deliver a wealth of knowledge and inspiration to help you shape your future.”

Councillor Pete Byrne, Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council further said:

“For individuals looking to start or enhance their careers through an Apprenticeship route, attendance at SRC’s Big Apprenticeship Event is a must.

“Supported through Newry Mourne and Down Labour Market Partnership, the event will be an excellent opportunity to engage directly with local cross-sector employers, ask questions, and learn about the skills and qualifications needed in today’s job market.”

“Discover how apprenticeships can pave the way for a successful career, create pathways to growth, and contribute to the development of a skilled workforce across the Newry, Mourne and Down District Council community.

“Don’t miss out on this chance to connect with employers and take proactive steps towards your career goals!”

With many career opportunities available, attendees are encouraged to make their way to their closest Big Apprenticeship Event. 

Free tickets are now available to book using the registration link:  

https://src-big-apprenticeship-event-2025.eventbrite.co.uk