Attendees included apprentice technicians, technical mangers, early career apprentices, midcareer apprentices and past apprentices from across the London and South East region. This unique networking event provided a valuable platform for apprentices at various stages of their careers to meet, discuss their journeys, and build lasting professional networks. Hosted at the National Oceanography Centre Southampton (NOCS), the event showcased a variety of working environments and how technicians lead groundbreaking research on land and in water.
With a mix of early, mid-career, and past apprentices in attendance, the day was filled with insightful discussions on the diverse pathways available within the technical profession. The atmosphere was lively, with plenty of opportunity for informal discussions, allowing apprentices to form organic relationships with technicians of various experiences and carry on building their personal networks external to their home institutions.
Post-event feedback enabled facilitators to gain a better understanding of what apprentices would like out of in-person events, including sector specific breakout opportunities and hands-on learning.
Apprentices also shared why they felt the apprenticeship route was a wise choice and expressed appreciation for the ability to balance work, life and learning as part of their professional growth. Apprentice managers and mentors also valued the opportunity to build connections and hear of opportunities for continuing professional development (CPD).
Uzma Sadiq, Apprenticeship Manager, University College London and Chair of the London and Southeast Technical Commitment apprenticeship subgroup said:
“It was great to see the interaction between the apprentices and hearing them sharing their experience of their apprenticeship journey.
“The day was full of activities including meeting ‘Boaty McBoatface’ and spending time out on the water onboard the research vessel Callista.
“The day gave us a valuable opportunity to support the apprentices in starting their networks and for them sharing how else we can enrich their apprenticeships collaboratively across the network. A huge thank you the University of Southampton, the National Oceanography Centre and ITSS for their support and funding to put the day together.”
This event was supported by the University of Southampton and the Technician Commitment Collaboration Fund 2024.
