Reaseheath College and University Centre is set to celebrate National Apprenticeship Week 2026 with a full programme of activity recognising the value of apprenticeships and celebrating student achievement.
This national annual campaign brings together employers, education providers and apprentices from across the country, and this year’s theme, Skills for Life, shines a spotlight on the practical, transferable skills apprentices develop throughout their training.
The week starts on Monday, 9th February with a Reaseheath Apprenticeship Fair, taking place at the Nantwich-based campus from 3pm to 6pm. This drop-in event will give prospective apprentices, parents and employers the chance to find out more about apprenticeship opportunities, speak directly with teams and explore progression routes.
On Wednesday, 11th February, the college will host its annual Apprenticeship Awards, recognising the commitment, progress and achievements of apprentices and the employers who support them. Award winners will be officially unveiled on Celebration Friday,13th February, as part of the national week of recognition.
Throughout the week, Reaseheath will be marking the national daily themes, including:
- Skills for Life – sharing stories from apprentices, employers and partners that highlight the real-world skills developed through apprenticeships;
- Employer Tuesday – showcasing apprenticeship programmes and employer partnerships that support workforce development and fill skills gaps;
- Apprentice Wednesday – celebrating apprentices and encouraging others to explore apprenticeship opportunities;
- T Level Thursday – highlighting technical education routes, progression opportunities and pathways into skilled careers
- Celebration Friday – recognising apprentice success and achievements;
- The NAW Weekender – sharing highlights and inspirational stories from across the week.
The week of activity follows a strong year for apprenticeships at Reaseheath. In 2024-25, the college bucked the national trend, recording a 13.2% increase in new apprenticeship starts at a time when apprenticeship numbers declined nationally. Nearly three-quarters of apprentices successfully completed their course, reflecting effective support and strong links between employers, tutors and students.
Apprenticeships at Reaseheath continue to play a vital role in supporting learners into employment, further training and higher education, while helping employers develop skilled, confident teams. National Apprenticeship Week 2026 provides a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the achievements of our apprentices, recognise our industry partnerships that make them possible, and encourage more people to consider apprenticeships as a positive and practical route into a wide range of careers.
Anyone interested in apprenticeships at Reaseheath College and University Centre, whether as a prospective apprentice, employer or parent, is encouraged to get in touch. Speak to the apprenticeships team at apprenticeships@reaseheath.ac.uk or visit www.reaseheath.ac.uk/apprenticeships to explore current opportunities and support available.
