Over 850 in attendance at Big Apprenticeship event

Over 850 people descended on Southern Regional College's Newry West Campus on 5 February 2026 for the Big Apprenticeship Event, with secondary school students, parents and adult learners all keen to explore work-based learning opportunities across a wide range of sectors. The event, held during the Department for the Economy's 2026 Apprenticeship Week, demonstrated the ongoing popularity of apprenticeships as a viable route into employment and career progression.

More than 35 employers and support organisations attended the event, engaging directly with prospective apprentices about opportunities starting in September 2026. Employers present covered job openings in accounting, analytical and bioscience fields, digital marketing, computing, construction, quantity surveying, electrical and electronic engineering, fintech and sports areas.

Among those attending were Leigh Fegan from Mayobridge and Shea Morgan from Hilltown, both students at St Mark's High School in Warrenpoint. Leigh attended the event to explore higher-level apprenticeship opportunities in accountancy, while Shea was keen to learn more about the wide range of career pathways available through higher-level apprenticeships. Also in attendance were Evalynn and Elisa Colgan from Crossgar, who are both students at Down High School in Downpatrick. They attended the event to gain insight into future career options and the different educational routes available to them.

Denise Cinnamond, Marketing Manager at Wood Innovations commented: "Wood Innovations are delighted to join the SRC in Newry for the big apprenticeship event. It's great to be part of an event that champions practical learning and real career pathways. At Wood Innovations, we are proud to support apprenticeships in the workplace. Apprenticeships are a fantastic route for developing talent and confidence and they bring real benefits to both employee and employer."

Conleth Greene from Nuline Utilities added: "Nuline Utilities are once again delighted to be part of the Big Apprenticeship Event which has become a significant night in our calendar and a launch pad for the careers of our local talent."

Mrs Lee Campbell, Principal and Chief Executive of Southern Regional College said it had been incredible to see the continued growth in interest in apprenticeships and higher-level apprenticeships year on year, along with the confidence people now have in choosing this route as a first-class career pathway. At the college, they continue to strengthen their apprenticeship provision, working closely with employers to ensure their programmes reflect real industry needs across the region.

"Apprenticeships and higher-level apprenticeships combine earning, learning and progression, providing people with the skills, experience and qualifications needed to succeed in today's economy. Our ambition remains clear: to open doors to meaningful, sustainable careers and to support individuals at every stage of their professional journey. We look forward to welcoming a new cohort of apprentices this September as they take the next step towards their future," she said.

Geraldine Kearns, Deputy Chair of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council commented: "SRC's Big Apprenticeship Event once again proved to be a fantastic event. It was encouraging to see such strong engagement from prospective apprentices and local employers across our District. Events like this play a vital role in connecting people with real career opportunities, while supporting businesses to develop and grow through new skills and talent."

Cllr Kearns added that the continued partnership with Newry, Mourne and Down Labour Market Partnership demonstrates a shared commitment to creating sustainable career pathways and strengthening the local economy.

There remain no tuition fees associated with pursuing an apprenticeship or higher-level apprenticeship due to funding provided by DfE. Apprenticeships are open to applicants of all ages, from school leavers to adult returners and those seeking a career change, with students earning a wage for work-based activities whilst studying.