Forty DCG apprentices have been onsite at the charity’s new headquarters at the former Ockbrook School, helping prepare the site to become fully “camp ready” ahead of its summer opening.
Apprenticeships Making a Real Difference for a Children’s Charity
Over The Wall Camp provides free residential experiences for children and young people with serious illnesses, giving them the chance to build confidence, make friends and enjoy safe, supportive activities.
The refurbishment support from Derby College Group’s apprentices will directly enhance the charity’s ability to welcome volunteers and, ultimately, the children who attend their life‑changing camps.
Apprentices from a range of regional employers are currently refurbishing a former boarding house, transforming it into warm, welcoming volunteer accommodation.
This hands‑on experience gives apprentices the chance to develop their practical skills in a live working environment while contributing to a cause that has lasting social impact.
Employers Coming Together for a Shared Purpose
A wide group of employers is supporting the initiative, including:
- Bell Group
- Hicks Professional P&D
- Décor 8 Midlands Limited
- Partridge & Street Property Services Limited
- JJ Decorators Limited
- AJ Group Derby Ltd
- Modern Gloss Decorators
- Premiere Property Services Ltd
Apprentices from Futures Housing Group have also joined the project, helping accelerate the transformation of the new charity headquarters.
This collaboration reinforces why apprenticeships are so valuable: they combine formal learning with meaningful, community‑focused experiences.
Why Apprenticeships Matter
Through this project, apprentices are developing:
- Technical and trade skills
- Teamwork and communication
- Confidence and independence
- Real pride in their craft
At the same time, they are making a positive difference to a charity that supports some of the UK’s most vulnerable young people. It shows apprentices that their work has impact far beyond the classroom or workshop.
Voices From the Partnership
Fiona Skinner, Employer Partnership Manager at Derby College Group, who coordinated the initiative, said:
“We are incredibly proud to see our apprentices applying their skills to a project with such a positive impact. Partnerships like this are what apprenticeships are all about — bringing together education, employers and community organisations to create meaningful opportunities.
“Our apprentices are gaining valuable experience on a live site while directly contributing to a space that will support children facing serious health challenges.”
Allan Jolly, Director of Business Development at Over The Wall Camp, added:
“We’re delighted to welcome Derby College Group and their apprentices to our new headquarters. Their professionalism and enthusiasm are helping us create a warm, welcoming space for the volunteers who make our camps possible.
“Our vision goes beyond residential camps — we want this site to become a true community asset. Partnerships like this demonstrate the power of collaboration in creating something that will benefit both the children we serve and the wider community for years to come.”
A Strong Commitment to Apprenticeships and Community Impact
As National Apprenticeship Week shone a light on the power of vocational learning, Derby College Group continues to build strong employer partnerships that allow apprentices to grow, contribute and thrive.
This project not only supports a vital charity but also demonstrates the real‑world value of apprenticeships — developing skilled individuals while making a genuine difference in the community.
