APPRENTICESHIP Week saw a return to QMC for several ex-QMC students who were keen to help inspire the next generation of apprentices.

The College’s Apprenticeship and Volunteering Fair was attended by a diverse range of employers including Visa, CGI and TechData, all of whom have been impressed by the calibre of the work-ready students who have gone on to secure apprenticeships upon leaving QMC.

Visa was represented by two ex-students, Jenny Lloyd and Christopher Murray, who both studied IT courses throughout their time at college.

Jenny, who left QMC in 2017, said: “I knew that university wasn’t for me and remember being really excited about Visa’s apprenticeship opportunities when they came in to deliver talks whilst I was at college.

“I was lucky enough to secure a position with them and now enjoy being able to earn and learn at the same time.”

Apprentice Josh Middleton, who left QMC last year and is also ‘enjoying the best of both worlds’, added: “I am currently studying for a digital technology degree and attend Winchester University for one day each week.

“I’m open minded about a future in business or IT. and my apprenticeship at CGI offers exciting opportunities for my future.”

Kyle Henderson left QMC last year and secured a datasales apprenticeship at a Basingstoke-based IT distribution company.

Kyle said “I started at TechData in September 2018 and the skills that I learnt at QMC, studying the business extended diploma have been very beneficial. I’ve really enjoyed coming back to QMC today to share my experience with students and to discuss their options for after college.” 

Current student Brett King was one of the students who attended the Apprenticeship Fair and found it really useful. He said: “It has been a great opportunity to explore ideas for after QMC and I also made some links with employers so I can gain some valuable work experience in the meantime.”