Event aims to connect young people with local employers and training providers
Solihull is set to host its annual Apprenticeship and Pathways Show at Cranmore Park on Wednesday 21 October, providing an opportunity for pupils, parents and careers advisers to speak directly with employers and training providers about local post‑16 options.
The event, which runs from 2.30pm to 7pm, will showcase apprenticeships, BTEC and T Level pathways across a range of sectors. Exhibitors confirmed for the event include Paragon Bank, McDermott Building & Civil Engineering, Solihull College & University Centre, University of Derby, Dodd Group, King’s Trust and Solihull Council. Attendees will also be able to speak to current apprentices and take part in workshops delivered by exhibitors throughout the afternoon and early evening.
- Event: Solihull Apprenticeship and Pathways Show
- Date: Wednesday 21 October
- Time: 2.30pm–7pm (first hour a quiet hour)
- Venue: Cranmore Park
Accessibility and support for those with additional needs
Organisers have built in an early quiet hour to make the show more accessible for residents with additional needs. The first hour of the event is intended to give quieter, less crowded access for people to find out more about apprenticeships and inclusive programmes, such as supported internships.
“There were over 1,000 visitors at the Solihull Apprenticeship and Pathways Show last year. It has always been our flagship event for young people to explore the range of pathways available locally after GCSE’s, as well as apprenticeships which have become an increasingly option with the rising living costs. We hope that young people can take this opportunity to get all the information they need to explore all their options over the term break. I’d encourage all young people, especially those in Year 10-13, to sign up for the show.”
The comment above was made by Councillor Heather Delaney, Solihull Council’s Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Economy, Business & Skills, underlining the council’s role in coordinating employer participation and supporting young people’s transitions from school.
Who should attend and what to expect
The show is aimed primarily at young people in Years 10–13 but is open to anyone seeking information on post‑16 training and careers in the local economy. Representatives from financial services, manufacturing, construction, engineering and the public sector will be present. Visitors can:
- Talk directly with employers and training providers about vacancies and recruitment processes;
- Hear from current apprentices about day‑to‑day experience and progression routes;
- Attend short workshops to gain practical insight into specific sectors or skills.
Employers and training providers who wish to exhibit at the event were directed to an online sign‑up form by organisers.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date | Wednesday 21 October |
| Time | 2.30pm–7pm (first hour quiet) |
| Venue | Cranmore Park |
Last year’s event drew more than 1,000 visitors, according to the council, and this year’s programme is pitched at a similar audience of school students, families and careers staff. With rising living costs cited as one reason more young people are considering apprenticeships, local employers and training providers are using the show to promote employment opportunities and post‑16 qualifications that combine work and study.
For Solihull residents, the fair presents a concentrated opportunity to compare different pathways in one place rather than relying on scattered online information or separate employer open days. The inclusion of a quiet hour and supported internship information aims to make the event inclusive for young people with additional needs as they plan their next steps.
Further details, including how to register or sign up as an exhibitor, are available from Solihull Council and the event organisers.
