National Apprenticeship Week shines a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships have on individuals, businesses, and the wider economy across the country. Bradford College engineering apprentices welcomed a local MP to their workplace to celebrate National Apprenticeship Week 2026 (9-15 February), and Northern Powergrid’s major apprenticeship recruitment drive aims to keep skills in the region.
Bradford College
Judith Cummins, MP for Bradford South and deputy speaker of the House of Commons, visited some of Bradford College’s Engineering Manufacturing Technician apprentices onsite at AESSEAL plc near Dudley Hill in Bradford. Alongside Bradford College CEO & principal Chris Webb, she toured the facilities and saw the apprentices at work.
Judith Cummins, said: “Apprenticeships open doors and create opportunities for learners, equipping them with valuable expertise while strengthening Bradford businesses. This partnership between ASSEAL and Bradford College is a great example of how education providers and employers work together with learners to grow local talent, and it was fantastic to see first-hand how apprentices are developing the advanced engineering skills that will drive Bradford’s manufacturing success for years to come.”
AESSEAL specialises in the design, manufacture, and supply of mechanical seals and support systems. The Sunday Times ranked AESSEAL as the top UK apprentice employer in the manufacturing sector for 2025.
Gaining practical experience
Apprentices Alicia, Mohammed, and Noah demonstrated how to use a CNC (computer numerically controlled) machine to cut, drill, and finish products and components used in engineering and manufacturing sectors. Afterwards, the apprentices took part in a roundtable discussion to share their thoughts on apprenticeships with the invited guests.
Apprentice Noah Heald said: “My apprenticeship has helped me develop new skills. I had no idea about CNC and machining – what it was or how to do it – before I started here, and now I can do it! That’s what I’m proud of being able to do.
“I’ve gained more confidence, working with people who are experienced in the field.[…] I hope to get as far as I can with CNC machinery as it’s something I enjoy and am interested in [and] I would 100% recommend an apprenticeship.”
The apprentices are enrolled on a Level 3 Engineering Technician programme, which teaches core engineering and manufacturing principles. Through a blend of college workshops and workplace mentoring, the apprentices are learning techniques and problem-solving skills that will enable them to support engineers, troubleshoot machinery, and contribute to efficient, compliant operations across a range of industries. Find out more about apprenticeships at Bradford College.
Chris Webb said: “At Bradford College, we’re committed to supporting these fantastic apprentices and our local employers. Our apprenticeships – across specialisms from engineering to business administration – develop skilled, work-ready talent that is driving productivity, growth, and long-term success across the region.”
Northern Powergrid recruitment
To coincide with National Apprenticeship Week, Northern Powergrid has begun recruitment for over 100 new roles this year. Roles range from craft apprenticeships to degree trainee positions that offer real opportunities for young people and career starters or changers to build and retain skills in the region.
The programme includes a wide range of different roles for varying entry levels, skills and experience, aiming to open doors for people to careers in the power industry. Each opportunity offers paid training, practical skills and the chance to work on real projects that make a difference in local towns, cities and rural communities. And these roles will join the existing teams who keep the power network running day in, day out.
Recent intakes have included former maths teachers, rail workers and people from a wide range of other careers who wanted a fresh challenge and have since trained as engineers. This proves there is no single route into the industry, and transferable skills are welcome.
The apprentice roles
Craft mates support skilled craft colleagues on the network, as they build their experience in order to enable progression into more technical roles. Craft apprentices are hands-on technical roles where apprentices learn how to build, maintain and repair the electricity network.
Foundation degree trainees will combine a mix of practical and academic learning, gaining paid work experience and leading to a formal qualification. The graduate and technical trainee professional development roles are aimed at university leavers looking to start their careers, or those who already have a relevant qualification and experience.
As the region’s demand for cleaner, more reliable power continues to grow, taking on apprentices has never been more important, with apprenticeships available in a range of locations across the north east, Yorkshire and north Lincolnshire.
Paul McGinlay, Director of Regional Operations at Northern Powergrid, said: “I began my own career as an apprentice, and I found that learning on the job was an excellent way to develop.
“The apprenticeship programme at Northern Powergrid is strong, offering the right balance of formal training, recognised qualifications, and invaluable hands‑on experience from our highly skilled and knowledgeable teams.”
Northern Powergrid’s recruitment outreach this year includes engagement with local schools and colleges, recruitment events and work with local organisations to encourage people of all ages and backgrounds to explore what is on offer.
Closing dates apply for these positions:
1 March: closing date for graduate and foundation degree roles
29 March: closing date for craft apprenticeship roles
Craft mate roles will open later in the year
Update: The Department for Education is running a Skills for Life campaign to promote lifelong learning and educational options, including apprenticeships, skills bootcamps and T-levels. The website aims to be a place where people of all ages can find trusted, clear guidance and information about their training options or future qualifications.
Adapted from press releases
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