Major Apprenticeship Fair returns to Derry's Guildhall

As Apprenticeship Week fast approaches, Derry City and Strabane District Council has announced it will host a special Apprenticeship Fair at the Guildhall on Wednesday, February 4.

The event will be led by the Council’s Labour Market Partnership (LMP) and will bring together local employers and potential candidates from a wide range of sectors, providing a valuable opportunity for people to explore apprenticeship pathways, speak directly with employers, and learn more about training and career options available across the district.

Funded by the Department for Communities, Labour Market Partnerships create targeted employment action plans for council areas, allowing for collaboration at local and regional level to support people towards and into work.

Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Ruairi McHugh, welcomed the announcement and highlighted the importance of apprenticeships in supporting economic growth and skills development.

“Apprenticeships play a vital role in creating real opportunities for people of all ages while helping local businesses develop the skilled workforce they need,” he said. “This Apprenticeship Fair is an excellent opportunity for anyone considering their next career step to connect directly with employers and training providers in a supportive and accessible setting.”

The Mayor added that the event underlined Council’s commitment to generating inclusive employment and promoting lifelong learning across the district.

Labour Market Partnership Manager with Council, Nicky Gilleece, said the event has been designed to meet the needs of both employers and jobseekers.

“The Apprenticeship Fair will showcase the breadth of opportunities available locally, from traditional trades to emerging sectors,” Ms Gilleece explained. “By bringing employers and potential apprentices together in one place, we are helping to break down barriers, raise awareness, and create direct pathways into training and sustainable employment.”

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The Derry Strabane LMP works proactively with the North West Regional College, the Careers Service and local private training providers to actively promote this as a viable opportunity and to create jobs for young people.

The Apprenticeship Fair will take place at the Guildhall on February 4, from 1.00pm – 4.00pm and is open to anyone interested in learning more about apprenticeships, whether they are school leavers, career changers, parents, or employers. A second Jobs and Apprenticeship event will take place in the Melvin Arena in Strabane on Friday February 6, from 1.00pm – 4.00pm.

For full details on the Apprenticeship programme visit http://getapprenticeships.me/ or email skills@derrystrabane.com.