Northern Regional College celebrates Apprenticeship Week with business breakfast in Co Derry campus

Northern Regional College hosted an employer-focused Business Breakfast as part of Apprenticeship Week 2026, aimed at helping businesses better understand apprenticeships, the support available to employers and the wide range of apprenticeship pathways on offer through the College.

Held at the College’s Coleraine Campus, the event brought together local employers, industry partners and stakeholders to explore how apprenticeships work in practice, the value apprentices can bring to businesses and how investing in talent can support long-term workforce development and retention.

Delivered in collaboration with Causeway Chamber, with contributions from the Department for the Economy and the Department for Communities, the Business Breakfast featured presentations from the College, government partners, employers and apprentices. Discussion focused on demystifying the apprenticeship process for employers and highlighting opportunities across a broad range of sectors, including Accountancy, Construction, Engineering, Catering and Hospitality.

Speaking at the event, Patrick Wallace, Head of Work Based Learning at Northern Regional College, said: “The Business Breakfast was a valuable opportunity to showcase the breadth of apprenticeships available through the College and to support employers in understanding how apprenticeships can work for their business. Apprenticeships not only help organisations develop new talent but can also play a key role in upskilling existing staff and improving retention. We are also at the early stages of the Apprenticeship Inclusion Challenge Fund project, where learning is ongoing, including exploring whether pre-apprenticeship provision could add value for both employers and individuals with a disability.”

Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald attended the event and highlighted the important role apprenticeships play in supporting skills development, productivity and economic growth across Northern Ireland.

Minister Archibald said: “Today was a great opportunity to meet employers, training providers and apprentices who are helping to shape a more inclusive and ambitious apprenticeship system.

“It was particularly encouraging to meet students involved in NRC’s ‘Talent Knows No Limits’ Apprenticeship Inclusion Challenge Fund project. My Department launched this Challenge Fund to support innovative projects, such as this, to increase apprenticeship uptake among women, people with disabilities, and those from disadvantaged areas.

“This project aligns perfectly with my Economic Vision: Apprenticeships improve access to good jobs, promote regional balance, boost productivity and open doors for people who face greater barriers, playing a vital role in building a stronger, fairer economy. I look forward to following the progress of the young people at the heart of this project.”

As part of the event programme, employers also had the option to take part in a Disability Awareness session delivered by Triangle Progression to Employment. This optional session formed part of the Apprenticeship Inclusion Challenge Fund and was designed to support employers who are considering recruiting a disabled apprentice.

Nicola Rowles, Engagement Officer at Triangle Progression to Employment, said, “With the right information and support, employers can feel confident in creating inclusive apprenticeship opportunities. This session focused on building understanding and highlighting practical supports to help both employers and apprentices succeed.”

Employers were encouraged to continue engaging with Northern Regional College to learn more about apprenticeship opportunities and the support available to help invest in talent and future-proof their business.