All residents and local employers are invited to attend the free Summit to celebrate and promote apprenticeship opportunities available in the borough and beyond, which has been organised in partnership with London South East Colleges and Visit Greenwich, and supported by the National Lottery.  

There will be focussed information sessions for employers, residents, pupils in years 12 and 13, culminating in a roundtable discussion chaired by Dr Sam Parrett CBE, Group Principal and CEO at London & South East Education Group, which includes London South East Colleges & London South East Academies Trust, to look at the challenges and opportunities of the apprenticeship levy. 

Councillor Mariam Lolavar, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Economy, Business and Skills, said: “Ensuring that everyone can secure a good job and reach their full potential is a key priority for the Council and this year we are delighted to kick off National Apprenticeship Week with our Greenwich Apprenticeship Summit.  

“It is an opportunity to earn and learn at the same time and now anyone over the age of 16 and not already in full-time education can become an apprentice – there's no upper age limit. They are also a fantastic way for local businesses to grow talent and develop a motivated, skilled, and qualified workforce and we can help employers access the Greenwich Access to Apprenticeships Fund to cover some of the costs”. 

Bookable information sessions 

Employer Information Session, 2pm to 3.30pm 

• Gain industry insights and guidance on navigating apprenticeships and accessing funding.  

• Build connections with fellow employers and hear about their experience with apprenticeships.  

• Learn effective strategies for integrating apprenticeships into your team. 

Book tickets: royalgreenwich.gov.uk/apprenticeship-summit-employer 

Prospective Apprentice Information Session (parents and carers welcome too), 4pm to 6pm 

• Explore local opportunities with leading organisations across the public sector, construction, healthcare and education browsing the employer market stalls. 

• Hear from apprentices about their experience and be inspired by their career journeys. 

• Networking opportunities with professionals, mentors, and peers who can support your career journey.  

• Get information and support to apply for apprenticeships and jobs. 

Book tickets: royalgreenwich.gov.uk/apprenticeship-summit-resident 

NOTE TO EDITORS 

Greenwich Access to Apprenticeships Fund  

• The fund can be used to cover 100% of the training and assessment costs of an apprenticeship, through one of the new apprenticeship standards.   

• There are over 800 nationally recognised apprenticeship standards available to new apprentices or existing staff, from Level 2 to Level 7, which is equivalent to a master's degree. See a full list of available apprenticeship standards.   

• The Greenwich Access to Apprenticeships fund allows the Council to transfer up to 25% of their annual levy funds to small businesses, third-sector organisations, charities, social enterprises, and apprenticeship training agencies.   

• The fund covers the cost of training and assessments for apprentices, but apprenticeship wages are not covered by the levy - this is something businesses need to cover like with any other employee.    

• The Council’s Employment and Skills team, Greenwich Local Labour and Business (GLLaB), can support businesses with information on the fund, eligibility, identifying candidates and hiring an apprentice. Get in touch with GLLaB to find out more:  apprenticeships@royalgreenwich.gov.uk , 0208 921 2440.