SRC Apprenticeship event returns to Newry this February

Tuesday 13 January 2026 17:12

Southern Regional College (SRC) will host the return of its popular Big Apprenticeship Event this February, offering prospective apprentices and higher level apprentices the chance to connect directly with employers and explore a wide range of career pathways.

The events will take place at Craigavon Civic Centre on Tuesday 3 February and at the College’s Newry West Campus on Thursday 5 February 2026, with both sessions running from 5.00pm to 7.30pm.

Designed to support people at all stages of their career journey, the Big Apprenticeship Event provides a valuable insight into apprenticeship and higher level apprenticeship opportunities. Apprenticeships allow participants to earn a salary while gaining recognised qualifications. An additional benefit is that no course fees are payable, as all apprenticeship training is funded by the Department for the Economy.

More than 35 employers and support organisations are expected to attend both nights, creating strong opportunities for prospective apprentices to engage with recruiting employers. SRC staff will also be on hand to provide guidance on course content, entry requirements, and assessment methods.

The event will showcase apprenticeship opportunities from Level 2 through to degree-level Higher Level Apprenticeships at Levels 5 and 6. SRC currently offers 30 apprenticeship pathways across a diverse range of industries, including barbering, hairdressing, motor vehicle maintenance, paint refinishing, accident repair, construction, engineering, and business administration, among many others. These pathways provide opportunities for both career starters and those looking to change direction.

At degree level, Higher Level Apprenticeships are available in 20 specialist areas, including accounting, applied science, business, digital marketing, construction, engineering, quantity surveying, fintech, tourism and hospitality, and sport and exercise.

The Newry Big Apprenticeship Event is delivered in partnership Newry, Mourne and Down District Council and Labour Market Partnership. The initiative continues to play a vital role in supporting young people and adult returners to develop industry-relevant skills and secure employment with local employers.

Mrs Lee Campbell, Principal and Chief Executive of Southern Regional College, commented:

“The Big Apprenticeship Events offer a significant opportunity for anyone considering an apprenticeship at any level to engage directly with key local employers. Apprenticeships offer a practical, cost-free way to gain qualifications while earning and building real workplace experience.

We are proud to work in partnership with local councils, employers, and Labour Market Partnerships to connect people with meaningful career opportunities that meet both individual ambitions and regional skills needs.”

Councillor Philip Campbell, Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council further commented:

“SRC’s Big Apprenticeship Event 2026 reflects the Council’s ongoing commitment to supporting employment, skills development, and economic growth across the Newry, Mourne and Down District. By bringing together local employers and residents in one setting, the event helps people understand the career opportunities available within their own communities and the role apprenticeships play in building a resilient, future-ready workforce. Initiatives like this, supported through the Newry Mourne and Down Labour Market Partnership are vital in ensuring our local economy continues to grow and our people have the skills needed to thrive.”