This year’s focus aligns with new government reforms designed to accelerate apprenticeships, boost access to high‑quality careers, and strengthen the UK’s priority growth sectors.
The latest update from the Department for Education marks a significant shift in how apprenticeships will help tackle national skills shortages in engineering, construction, digital, manufacturing and green technologies.
These reforms reinforce the vital work already happening across Derby and the wider East Midlands to prepare learners for future‑focused jobs and long‑term career success.
A week dedicated to apprenticeships
Throughout National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) 2026, Derby College Group will highlight how apprenticeships help learners build real‑world skills, gain practical experience, and progress into meaningful jobs and careers.
Programme overview:
- Monday: Apprenticeship Recruitment & Careers Pop‑Up events + student project showcases
- Tuesday: Employer insight sessions offering direct introductions to industry professionals and career pathways
- Wednesday: Apprentice‑focused activities, including degree apprenticeship fairs
- Thursday: T Level Thursday and The Roundhouse Open Evening
- Friday: Celebration of apprentice talent, achievement and success
This schedule reflects DCG’s long-standing commitment to employer‑led education, ensuring learners gain the skills needed for both regional and national career opportunities.
Women in Engineering – 11 February 2026
As part of the week, DCG will host a dedicated Women in Engineering event, bringing students, employers and industry professionals together for a day of inspiring talks and networking.
The aim is to encourage more women into engineering apprenticeships at a time when demand for technical skills continues to rise.
The Roundhouse Open Evening (inc Apprenticeship focus) – 12 February 2026
On Thursday 12 February, from 5:00–7:00 pm, DCG will open the doors of The Roundhouse to prospective students, parents and employers.
The event is designed to showcase DCG’s full range of apprenticeships and full-time study programmes, and give insight into potential jobs and careers.
Visitors can discover opportunities in:
- Engineering
- Construction
- Automotive
- Health & Social Care
- Business
- Digital
- Hospitality
- Hair & Beauty
- Education
- Leadership
- T Levels
Employer partners—including Alstom, Nestlé, East Midlands Railway, Derby City Council and Vaillant Group UK—will be on hand to discuss career routes and apprenticeship pathways.
The evening includes an apprenticeship talk and a 20‑minute presentation at 5:45 pm.
Apprenticeships build skills for the future economy
Derby College Group is also a delivery partner in the East Midlands Institute of Technology, working alongside the University of Derby and regional partners to deliver higher-level technical education.
The Institute focuses on apprenticeships, T Levels and HNCs aligned to engineering, digital, professional construction, future energy and the green economy, directly supporting the government’s ambition to accelerate skills in growth sectors
Real stories from apprenticeship students
DCG continues to showcase how apprenticeships create strong career pathways and genuine employment opportunities.
Faiza Saghir, former apprentice:
“My apprenticeship gave me confidence, real industry experience and a clear career path. You’re earning, learning and building skills that employers genuinely value — it’s opened doors I never thought possible.”
Engineering apprentice Jensen Stanley:
“The hands-on experience and support from both my employer and Derby College Group helped me progress faster than I expected. Apprenticeships prepare you for real jobs, not just exams.”
A changing time for apprenticeships
With national apprenticeship reforms accelerating, DCG is inviting students, parents, local employers and the wider community to explore how apprenticeships can unlock new career opportunities, drive economic growth and develop the next generation of skilled professionals across Derby and the East Midlands.
During National Apprenticeship Week 2026, Derby College Group continues to champion the role apprenticeships play in shaping futures, supporting social mobility and powering the workforce of tomorrow.
