1,300 apprentices. 207 employer partners. One proven track record of excellence.
Ayrshire College is celebrating the achievements of its apprentices and employer partners during Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2026, highlighting the important role apprenticeships play in supporting businesses and developing the skilled workforce that Ayrshire’s economy depends on.
Throughout the week, the College shared inspiring stories from apprentices, employers and staff across its social media channels, shining a spotlight on the people and partnerships that make apprenticeships such a powerful route into skilled careers.
Currently supporting 1,300 apprentices in partnership with 207 employers, Ayrshire College continues to work closely with industry to deliver high-quality training that meets the needs of both learners and businesses across the region.
Angela Cox, Principal and Chief Executive of Ayrshire College, said:
Scottish Apprenticeship Week provides an important opportunity to celebrate the achievements of our apprentices and recognise the strength of our partnerships with employers across Ayrshire. Apprenticeships play a vital role in developing the skills our economy needs, and we are proud to support 1,300 apprentices who are building successful careers while making a meaningful contribution to businesses and communities across the region.
Building the workforce of the future
With a long-standing reputation for delivering high-quality apprenticeship training across multiple sectors, the College works closely with employers to ensure programmes reflect the real skills required in today’s industries.
Apprenticeships combine practical workplace experience with expert academic instruction, enabling individuals to gain industry-recognised qualifications while developing the knowledge, confidence and capabilities needed to succeed in their chosen careers.
The continued growth of apprenticeship provision at Ayrshire College reflects strong employer confidence and long-standing industry partnerships.
A partnership approach
Ayrshire College’s apprenticeship model is built on collaboration, employer responsiveness and a strong focus on learner success. Employer partners consistently highlight the value of tailored programmes, clear communication and dedicated support from College staff.
Stuart Banks, General Manager at Hyspec Engineering, said:
The foundation our apprentices receive through Ayrshire College is critical to their success within our business. The structured training, combined with practical workplace experience, ensures they understand the importance of accuracy, reliability and high standards, qualities that define our company and underpin our long-standing client relationships.
Skye Love, 3rd Year Apprentice Manufacturing Engineer (CNC Machinist), added:
Studying at Ayrshire College gave me the boost and the passion I needed to continue my education and start my apprenticeship in the Inverclyde district. Being an apprentice has set me up to start my career earlier than most. I will be fully qualified at 21, and gaining my certification will allow me to travel the world while doing what I love most, being a manufacturing engineer.
Supporting businesses. Strengthening communities.
Working with 207 employers across sectors including construction, engineering, health and social care, business, and early years, the College ensures its apprenticeship provision aligns with both regional and national skills priorities.
This strong employer engagement supports a model that:
- Helps address skills shortages
- Drives business growth and innovation
- Increases productivity
- Creates sustainable career pathways for Ayrshire’s workforce
Through Scottish Apprenticeship Week, the College has reaffirmed its commitment to widening access to opportunity, supporting economic development and helping people build successful careers locally.
The apprenticeship trainer of choice
With 1,300 apprentices currently in training, demand for Ayrshire College’s apprenticeship programmes continues to grow. Employers return year after year, and apprentices regularly recommend the experience to others.
As Scottish Apprenticeship Week places a national spotlight on the value of work-based learning, Ayrshire College proudly celebrates the achievements of its apprentices, employer partners and staff, reinforcing its position as Ayrshire’s apprenticeship trainer of choice.