UCS College Group has successfully delivered a series of Mission Employable apprenticeship events across its Bridgwater, Cannington, Strode and Taunton campuses, supporting more than 250 aspiring apprentices across Somerset.
Held throughout December and January, the events brought together employers, apprentice ambassadors and prospective apprentices for engaging, practical sessions designed to build confidence and create meaningful employer connections. Mission Employable forms part of the College’s wider Talent Pool initiative, which supports individuals into long-term apprenticeship pathways while helping employers meet regional skills needs.
The events were made possible thanks to the generous involvement of employer partners including HR GO Recruitment, Mulberry, MĂĽller, Taylor Woodrow, Steer Sports, Rotamec, Matravers Engineering, Teapot Creative, Wessex Water / YTL Group, Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, TMB Patterns, Corbel Conservation, Thatchers Cider, Somerset Larder, Protyres, Nuclear Restoration Services, EDF and Young HPC.
Each event featured a diverse panel of employers and current apprentices from a range of sectors. Employers provided practical guidance on what they look for in an apprentice, how candidates can stand out during recruitment, and the support available throughout an apprenticeship journey. Sessions also gave attendees valuable insight into the recruitment process and workplace expectations.
Apprentice ambassadors shared honest accounts of their own experiences. One apprentice spoke about approaching nearly seventy employers before securing the right opportunity — a powerful example of resilience and determination. These real-life stories helped attendees better understand the realities of the apprenticeship journey and the persistence sometimes required to succeed.
Feedback from attendees has been overwhelmingly positive:
• 100% rated their overall experience as Excellent
• 100% said the event improved their confidence in applying for apprenticeships
• 91% reported a significant increase in confidence
Participants described the events as “motivational”, “well put together” and “fantastic”, with many leaving feeling more confident and focused. Several attendees also connected directly with employers they later applied to – exactly the type of outcome Mission Employable aims to achieve.
Strengthening Partnerships and Supporting Growth
Mission Employable reflects UCS College Group’s commitment to supporting learners into employment while strengthening partnerships with industry. The Talent Pool team continues to work closely with employers and prospective apprentices to match individuals with suitable opportunities, supporting workforce development across Somerset.
With strong engagement across all four campuses, Mission Employable continues to build confidence, ambition and momentum for future apprentices.
For more information about the Talent Pool or to explore current apprenticeship vacancies, please contact the team at TalentPool@ucscollegegroup.ac.uk.
Employers interested in supporting future talent or partnering with the college are warmly encouraged to get in touch.
For more information about UCS College Group and apprenticeship programmes, please visit ucscollegegroup.ac.uk or call Information and Advice on 01278 441234.