More than 150 apprentices from across Staffordshire gathered at the County Showground in Stafford to celebrate the successful completion of their apprenticeships.
The annual Staffordshire Apprenticeship Graduation Ceremony brought together apprentices, employers and training providers to recognise the achievements of learners from a wide range of sectors and highlight the important role apprenticeships play in developing the county’s workforce.
The ceremony earlier today, Tuesday 14 July, featured guest speakers from local businesses, education providers and Staffordshire County Council, who shared their own experiences and congratulated graduates on their achievements.
Leanne Walker, a Children, Young People and Families Practitioner Level 4 Apprenticeship graduate who attended the ceremony, said:
“Completing my apprenticeship with a Distinction is one of my proudest achievements. At 44 years of age, I’ve always found learning a challenge, so I never imagined I would achieve this.
“For me, an apprenticeship is the best way to gain a qualification because you’re learning while doing the job every day. Everything is fresh in your mind, and you’re already familiar with what you’re writing about and discussing during professional discussions.
“I would highly recommend an apprenticeship to anyone, whatever their age or experience. If you’re willing to put in the effort, you really can achieve more than you think.”
Holly Clark, a graduating apprentice in veterinary nursing, said:
“When I graduated from Birmingham City University with a degree in Criminology, I honestly thought I’d finished studying for good. At the time I was working part-time as a receptionist in a veterinary practice, and it was through that job that I realised I wanted to become a veterinary nurse.
“I’m really grateful that I had the chance to do this through the apprenticeship route. Being able to work while studying meant I was learning practical skills from day one, and I could put everything I was being taught straight into practice.
“Looking back, deciding to do an apprenticeship completely changed the direction of my career, and I’m so glad I took that opportunity.”
Robin Hall, Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills at Staffordshire County Council, who spoke at the event, said:
“As someone who started my career on a YTS scheme in the 1980s, which in many ways was similar to a modern apprenticeship, I know first-hand the opportunities that apprenticeships can create and the lasting impact they can have.
“Since the graduation ceremonies first began in 2015, more than 1,200 apprentices have taken part, marking a significant milestone in Staffordshire’s commitment to skills, training and employment opportunities.
“I want to congratulate every graduate on reaching this important milestone and thank the employers and training providers who continue to invest in developing local talent across Staffordshire.”
Apprenticeships continue to be a key driver of economic growth in Staffordshire. In 2024/25, 9,615 people started an apprenticeship, helping businesses fill skills gaps while supporting people to earn while they learn.
Employers interested in taking on an apprentice can get support from Ladder for Staffordshire or by calling 03332 409 699.
For details of apprenticeship opportunities in Staffordshire visit Staffordshire Jobs and Careers Service.
