Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2024
The only question is ...are you ready to be the future of Scotland?
Be the future of Scotland
From March 4th to 8th, we delved into the world of apprenticeships in Scotland
Instead of chasing perfect skills, say yes to those with the drive and passion to build what your business needs. Be the future of Scotland.
It is not just about filling roles; it's about future proofing your business, igniting careers and unlocking potential you never knew existed.
Catch-up on all of the Scottish Apprenticeship Week action to bring apprenticeships to even more people across Scotland.
If you are an employer, discover how apprenticeships transform your workforce cost-effectively.
Are you an employer looking for tech talent?
Attract new candidates or upskill your existing workforce with in-demand expertise. Learn more about recruiting apprenticeship talent with QA.
Looking to kickstart a career in tech?
Become an apprentice with QA and earn as you learn whether you’re a school leaver or an employee looking to upskill or reskill. Learn more about how to apply for an apprenticeship.
Top 5 Benefits of Hiring an Apprentice
Looking to add fresh tech talent to your team? Here's why employing an apprentice could be the perfect solution.
QA Scotland Apprenticeship Awards
In a dynamic world of apprenticeships, our mission is not only to provide the best digital and tech apprenticeships, but also to foster continuous and strong relationships with our clients and partners.
By working closely with them, we aim to create transformative experiences that empower apprentices to succeed in their careers and contribute to the growth and prosperity of industries in Scotland.
As a testament to the dedication, hard work and contribution of apprentices, employers, and clients, our annual QA Scottish Apprenticeship Awards brings together individuals and organisations to honour their outstanding achievements in the apprenticeship landscape.
SAW 2024 – Look back on all the action
We had an exciting week with multiple events this year. Some of the main events included the "Explore Digital and Tech Apprenticeships" webinar for teachers, career advisers, parents and career enthusiasts, the "Give it a Go Day" with Microsoft which was held at Microsoft's HQ for women looking to forge careers in tech, the "Ace Your Job Interview" workshop, the QA/NatWest webinar discussing why apprenticeships are a strategic choice for businesses, and the Python Programming TTN workshop.
If you missed the QA/NatWest webinar, you can watch it on-demand below. Additionally, we have several upcoming tech and employability workshops that you can register for.
Investing in the Future. Why Apprenticeships are a Strategic Choice for your business.
On-demand
This fireside chat with NatWest explores why apprentices are good for business. If you are an employer considering hiring an apprentice, this webinar takes you through all the pros and cons.
Free Tech and Employability workshops to expand your skills
2-4 hours, virtual
Unlock a world of opportunities with our interactive workshops – choose from Python Programming to Data Management, CV Writing, Ace your interview and more!
Meet Our Apprentices
QA apprentices explain the positive impact that apprenticeships have had on their careers.
Mohammad Nassor
Data Analytics Apprentice
NHS
‘I now have a job that I’m really enjoying and career path that wasn’t available to me before starting the programme. My apprenticeship gave me the opportunity to continue learning and growing whilst also working. I’ve met new people, made lots of friends and connections, been exposed to many different work cultures, and this has allowed me to pave a career in a field I didn’t know anything about beforehand.’
Fiona MacDonald
Information Technology and Telecommunications Professionals Apprentice - MDDUS
‘The programme that I’m currently doing has changed my life drastically for the better, as in the last year I have developed into the best version of myself; I have grown so much as a person, improving my maturity, independence, and confidence. I look forward to progressing through the world of IT as this apprenticeship has shown that I'm capable to take on whatever opportunities are thrown at me.’
Finlay Pake
Information Technology & Telecommunications Professionals Apprentice - Computershare Investor Services PLC
‘I've been a part of numerous projects which have all given me the feeling of responsibility for the team, confidence in myself and others and even passion for my job which I'm loving. I'm very grateful for the opportunity I've been given and can't wait to progress with QA and Computershare, as this has truly ignited my career in IT and can only go up from here!’
To learn more about apprenticeships, take a look at the videos below
QA's Autocomplete Interview
Mohammad Nassor, currently pursuing a Data Analytics apprenticeship with NHS, answers the internet's questions about apprenticeships.
Match the apprentice to their apprenticeship
Can QA employees correctly match our apprentices to their apprenticeship programme?
Apprenticeship case studies - Delivering tech talent for business
“Apprenticeships are a good opportunity for individuals looking to make a career in IT. We see apprenticeships as investing in young people. We like the idea of growing our own talent within the company. This gives them a good grounding on learning and gives us time to make sure they are the right people for our company.”
Donald McKay
Head of Support
Kick ICT Group
“We took a bit of persuading with apprenticeships initially but we are sold on the idea now and will continue to do so. If any employer has doubts I would say don’t knock it until you’ve tried it.”
John McGuire
Owner
Pulsion Technology
“We have been using the apprenticeship scheme since 2009 and the young apprentices we have hired have brought a change to the culture with their enthusiasm and a different approach which is critical to any company that has a modern looking view. Modern apprentices are not about cheap labour they are about really good talent.”
Martin Darroch
Chief Executive
Harper MacLeod LLP
“We’ve been blown away with the quality of the candidates that have been put in front of us. If these candidates are representative of the level of the capabilities that are coming out of the schools in Scotland I think we are in an extremely good place as a nation and a tech nation for the future.”
John Gilhooly
CEO
Evo Software Solutions
Scottish Apprenticeship Week FAQs
When is Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2024?
Scottish Apprenticeship Week always takes place in March. This year it ran from Monday 4th to Friday 8th March.
What is Scottish Apprenticeship Week?
Scottish Apprenticeship Week is an annual celebration which shines light on the vital role apprenticeships play in supporting people, employers and the economy in Scotland.
This year’s theme is ‘Be the Future of Scotland’ encouraging both employers and young people to invest their talents in building a bright future.
How many Scottish Apprenticeship Weeks have there been?
2024 will be the 13th Scottish Apprenticeship Week with the first event taking place in 2011. It originally started as a week for employers in Edinburgh to explore the benefits of employing Modern Apprentices – but today it is celebrated across the whole country.