On Wednesday 22 October 2025, over 1,100 young people, parents and carers visited the Solihull Apprenticeship and Pathways show to learn about local opportunities.
Over 35 employers and training providers across sectors including construction, finance, creative and digital were featured at the show in Cranmore Park. Exhibitors included HSBC, Balfour Beatty VINCI, Halfords, British Airways, JLR, Paragon Bank, Solihull Council and Solihull Moors Foundation.
Those in attendance had the opportunity to find out more about apprenticeships up to degree level, supported internships and other post-16 pathways such as BTEC and T Levels, providing young people with everything they need to make the best decision after GCSEs. Current apprentices were there to provide first-hand experience and demonstrate the wide variety of career paths available.
The Mayor of Solihull, Cllr Annette Mackenzie, said:
“I was delighted to be invited to the show. Bringing together employers and training providers under one roof for an evening is such a fantastic way for young people to see all the different ways they can develop after they finish school. I would like to thank all the exhibitors and our staff for making this event a great success.”
Cllr Karen Grinsell, Leader of Solihull Council and Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Children and Education, said:
“Education and youth employment have always been our key priorities. It was brilliant to see so many young people speaking to exhibitors, finding out about the exciting opportunities on offer and asking all the questions they have. We hope that will help them to develop the skills they need for success and enter the world of work with confidence.”
Cllr Heather Delaney, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Economy, Business and Skills, said:
“Our Employment and Skills team always work to ensure that everyone who attends the show is supported and able to get the most out of the experience regardless of their needs or interests. This time, post-16 pathways were showcased alongside apprenticeships. These included programmes for aspiring football coaches, engineers, chefs, hairstylists and make-up artists. A-levels are far from the only path forward after GCSEs. The show also provided businesses with an opportunity to understand their future workforce through meaningful conversations and engagements. Investing in the next generation not only improves youth career prospects but also ensures a thriving economy and long-term growth in the borough.”
Josh Evans, a current apprentice at Halfords, said:
“This is Halfords’s first time being at the show. There are plenty of people asking questions. I'm glad that this event has been put into place to help young people progress their skills at an early age, especially with apprenticeships. I absolutely love my job and it's only because of the support that I’ve been given. By progressing with my apprenticeship, I can now give advice to future apprentices.”
The Solihull Apprenticeship Show was organised by Solihull Careers Hub, which is part of the Council’s Employment and Skills team. Solihull Careers Hub supports schools and colleges in delivering the best careers provision for young people.
The next show is scheduled on 28 January 2025 in North Solihull Sports Centre. Employers, colleges and training providers can sign up via this link.