Glasgow businesses encouraged to take 2019 apprenticeship challenge

The challenge, set by Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) Glasgow, calls for local companies to enter a team of two or more apprentices who will plan and undertake a project that will benefit the local communities in which they operate.

The competition is open to companies of all sizes in Glasgow with employees currently following a Foundation, Modern or Graduate level Apprenticeship framework, and will enable staff to utilise the skills they have learned through their apprenticeship, while providing the opportunity to develop new skills.

The challenge aims to showcase the quality of apprentices employed in Glasgow and the high level of training offered by businesses and organisations in the city. Additionally, the DYW team hopes to promote the many benefits of apprenticeships, encouraging other businesses in Glasgow to consider offering the route within their own organisations.

Businesses can now enter free of charge via a quick registration form, with projects carried out by the apprentices between May 31 and September 27 submitted to a showcase event in November. BAE Systems, Scottish Qualifications Authority and the McTaggart Construction Group are just a few of the Glasgow employers who have already signed-up.

Last year, two Arnold Clark apprentices were crowned as the overall winners of the 2018 Glasgow Apprenticeship Challenge.

Louise Kane and Darren McCaign designed an interactive STEM-based project for their local partner school, Abercorn Secondary in Cowcaddens. 

The project had two main parts including a bicycle with thermos-chronic paint that changed colour under heat, with a gauge attached to show how electricity would be generated when the pedals were moving. The second was a question board based on Scottish inventors with hidden answers revealing a secret code to lead pupils to a website with different STEM activities that could be used within lessons.  Louis and Darren used skills they had learned during their apprenticeship and also gained many new skills whilst working on the project.

Alison McRae, senior director, Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, said: “We would urge all Glasgow businesses that employ apprentices to consider getting involved in this year’s Apprenticeship Challenge.

“The project offers many benefits to apprentices and employers alike and is a great way of making a positive contribution to local communities, gaining key skills along the way.

“We want to showcase the amount of talent in Glasgow through the challenge and demonstrate the numerous benefits apprenticeships can offer employers and young people.”

The deadline for employers to register is 31 May 2019. Find out more about the Glasgow Apprenticeship Challenge on the DYW website.