Scottish Apprentice Week ran from the 7-11 March as a national celebration of the achievements of individual apprentices and everyone who contributes to their success.

The Week shines a light on the vital role apprenticeships play in supporting employers and the economy. The college supports a wide range of apprenticeships for local companies and West Lothian Council from joinery to electrical and engineering.

For school pupils, the college offers a wide range of foundation apprenticeships in areas like childcare, software development, engineering and business. These enable young people to complete a work-based qualification alongside the subjects they are studying at school.

This year’s Scottish Apprenticeship Week carried the strapline #ApprenticeshipsWork with around 43,000 apprentices in jobs and work-based learning across Scotland.

The college shared case studies and shone a spotlight on those who are currently on apprenticeships while studying or working there by sharing their stories and showcasing what an apprenticeship can offer.

Modern Apprentice Enquiries and Admissions Officer at West Lothian College Rebecca Spencer Ashton said:

“My apprenticeship has enabled me to grow as a person. I find tasks like answering the phone and dealing with enquiries really enjoyable. I also love that I get to earn while learning on the job! I used to study at the college so it’s great being back as a member of staff."

A highlight of the week gave students the chance to hear from Maxi Construction through trade talks on campus. Maxi are currently completing building works on the college campus.

Students practiced working at height and building scaffolding using VR equipment to give them a virtual building experience as well as using a drone for surveying purposes.

The visit was captured in this short video created in part by Creative Digital and Media Foundation Apprentice Krisztina Safrany

Learning and Skills Manager for Workforce Development at West Lothian College Louise MacDonald  said:

“Teaming up with Maxi Construction gave our students the chance to have a guided tour of a real work environment, demonstrating what they might expect while working in the construction sector, highlighting the importance of health and safety and viewing works at various stages of completion.

“Using the VR equipment recently provided to the college by the Energy Skills Partnership was an excellent way for students to enjoy a virtual experience which emphasised the various activities that can be part of the construction and built environment profession”.