Manchester Metropolitan sponsors the Association of Apprentices as a training provider

Manchester Metropolitan announces its collaboration with the Association of Apprentices (AoA) - a dynamic organisation committed to empowering apprentices across the country throughout their journey. The sponsorship showcases the University’s dedication to supporting apprentices and nurturing their talent, recognising them as the workforce of tomorrow.

This new partnership highlights a shared vision of fostering education, skills development and professional growth among apprentices. With the support of Manchester Met, the AoA aims to enhance opportunities for apprentices across a range of sectors, from digital and technology to healthcare and finance, providing them with the tools and resources not only to complete their apprenticeship programme but to thrive in their life-long career development.

Manchester Met is committed to delivering its expertise and resources to support the AoA’s development initiatives, such as AoA Connect and AoA Learn. This will include participating in mentoring schemes and networking events designed to connect apprentices with industry professionals, enabling them to gain insights they can directly apply to their workplace. Examples of these workshops range from learning about well-being at work and developing professional soft skills to mastering how to complete a job application.

The resources available will also help the staff at Manchester Met to access specific resources to support their apprentices in certain areas, to help them thrive throughout their apprenticeship programme.

James Walker, Deputy Director of Apprenticeships at Manchester Met, said: “We are excited about the beginning of the new partnership with the Association of Apprentices, which will further enhance the support our apprentices receive around career development and networking and provide opportunities to connect with the growing apprentice community.”

Rachel Kayes, Community Manager at Association of Apprentices, said: “We are delighted to collaborate with Manchester Metropolitan University for the hugely successful Apprentice Meet Up. This event highlights our shared dedication to enhancing the apprentice experience, specifically through networking and development. Together, we aim to create a truly inclusive and supportive environment that celebrates the talents and aspirations among apprentices, from their very first day to completion, and beyond.”

This partnership marks the beginning of an exciting journey over the next year for both Manchester Met and AoA, as they foster a joined-up approach that will contribute to shaping a more skilled and competent workforce, ready to bridge the skills gap in specific industry areas.