Hundreds take part in Bolton College apprenticeship events

Bolton College ran a five day programme during National Apprenticeship Week 2026, connecting with school pupils, employers, and the wider public.

To promote apprenticeship pathways as a route to earning and gaining qualifications without student debt.

Central to the college’s campaign was the Bolton College Big Yellow Apprenticeship Bus, an American-style school bus turned mobile information centre.

Beki Green, Bolton College’s Schools Engagement Coordinator, on the Yellow Bus (Image: BOLTON COLLEGE)

Liam Sloan, principal of Bolton College, said: “The level of engagement throughout National Apprenticeship Week has been striking.

“Apprenticeships have long been a respected and credible route into skilled employment, but we are clearly seeing growing momentum and wider recognition of their value.

“It has been particularly encouraging to see such strong interest from young people and adults alike, alongside the continued commitment of our employer partners.

Bolton College’s Big Yellow Apprenticeship Bus (Image: BOLTON COLLEGE)

“I would like to thank the schools, employers and organisations who gave their time to support the week.

“Apprenticeships are clearly opening doors and creating real opportunities, whether someone is starting their career, progressing further or choosing a completely new direction.”

Andrew Moore from The Manchester Metropolitan University (Image: BOLTON COLLEGE)

The bus toured secondary schools across Bolton, reaching more than 500 pupils through sessions explaining apprenticeship entry requirements and progression to higher qualifications.

It also visited the college’s Deane Road Campus during its Open Event and was stationed in Victoria Square to engage adults interested in upskilling or changing careers.

Bolton College delivers hundreds of apprenticeships each year, working with employers across Greater Manchester and the North West to support both school leavers and adults seeking to retrain.

The college hosted a construction networking event on campus, where learners met employers such as Onward Homes, Caddick Developments, and Taylor Wimpey plc.

Their Careers Team also ran its annual Apprenticeship Café, offering advice on live vacancies and applications.

Higher education providers and training organisations attended to discuss progression to higher and degree apprenticeships.

A highlight of the week was the Bolton Council Apprentices Celebration Lunch, hosted in the college’s Immersive Suite.

Construction Networking Event (Image: BOLTON COLLEGE)

The event brought together council apprentices, managers, and team leaders to celebrate achievements and the partnership between Bolton College and Bolton Council.

Apprenticeships offer paid employment alongside structured training, allowing individuals to earn nationally recognised qualifications while gaining valuable workplace experience.

They also provide opportunities for upskilling and career progression at any stage of working life.