A campaign to sign up 100 apprentices in 100 days during the centenary celebrations of West Suffolk College and Eastern Education Group is nearing its conclusion.
Set up in earlier this year, the idea was to shine a light on the importance of these qualifications whilst also tipping the hat to the group’s 100th anniversary.
So far, 54 have joined the college on a new journey by signing up to an apprenticeship.
They include Ava DeLilla, 19, from Thetford.
Ava is currently on a level three business administration course with Eastern Education Group.
Her programme initially began in November 2024 when she started a new role as an executive assistant.
She has subsequently transferred to a position in the marketing department in March this year.
Ava said: “I went to Abbeygate Sixth Form College after my GCSEs and finished last year. I considered university but saw this position. I originally started in the executive team but moved to marketing as it is a better fit for me. It’s more creative. I fall under events and I have also been helping with a campaign called 100 voices that is part of the college groups centenary celebrations.
“I don’t have any regrets about not going to university. Coming here (and working) was right for me.
“I’d say to other young people that apprenticeships are a good way to get a qualification and job at the same time. I’ve learnt a lot since starting here. The highlight has been working on some big campaigns and finding out about the history of the college – and I like working with the team and learning new things. “It’s great to be part of the 100 in 100 apprenticeship campaign,” she added.
Richard Stittle is the group director for business development at Eastern Education Group. Richard said: “Apprenticeships are a great way to get the skills, experiences and expertise to help elevate your career. We are proud to support people of all ages, working with thousands of students and hundreds of businesses every year.
“Ava is a great example of someone who chose an apprenticeship over university, and we have found that to be the case more and more in recent years.
“We are delighted to be running this campaign that is nearing its conclusion as it aims to champion these fantastic qualifications during our centenary celebrations.”
