• Swindon & Wiltshire Education, training and skills
• Monday June 1 2026

Wiltshire College apprenticeship campaign exceeds expectations

More than 300 employers pledged their support for apprenticeships and future workforce development across the region, as part of Wiltshire College’s ‘150 in 100’ campaign.

Launched during National Apprenticeship Week, the original campaign aimed to secure 150 employer pledges in 100 days.

However, strong support from businesses across Wiltshire and beyond saw the campaign quickly evolve into ‘200 in 100’ as momentum continued to grow.

The campaign was launched to encourage employers to support apprenticeships, create opportunities for people and help tackle skills shortages across a range of industries.

Throughout the campaign, the College strengthened partnerships with employers, welcomed new businesses from a wide range of sectors and shared student success stories highlighting the impact apprenticeships can have on careers and workforce development.

The campaign also reinforced the importance of collaboration between education and industry, helping ensure students and apprentices develop the skills, knowledge and experience employers are looking for.

Wiltshire College & University Centre currently works with over 1,000 employers across more than 60 apprenticeship programmes supporting businesses to grow their workforce and address industry skills gaps.

Debbie Williams from John Williams Heating Services, which celebrated its 25th apprentice this year, said: “Apprenticeships are the lifeblood of our business, and we’re proud to play a role in shaping skilled, confident professionals within our community.

“We believe strongly in giving young people meaningful opportunities to grow, learn and thrive. Technical skills and real-world experience are essential in our industry, and we’re passionate about supporting students who want a practical, hands-on route into a rewarding career.”

Principal & CEO of Wiltshire College & University Centre, Iain Hatt said: “Apprenticeships and work experience are a vital part of what we do as a college, and the success of this campaign reflects the growing commitment from employers across the region to invest in future talent.

“By working in partnership with businesses across Wiltshire and beyond, we aim to develop the skilled workforce that our communities and industries rely on. We work with some of the region’s leading employers, to deliver training and apprenticeship opportunities across a wide range of sectors and skill levels.

“We’re incredibly grateful to every employer who pledged their support during the campaign, and we look forward to continuing to build those partnerships in the future.”

Although the campaign has officially come to an end, Wiltshire College & University Centre says it is still keen to hear from businesses interested in supporting apprenticeships or working in partnership with the College.