The EIF (Events Industry Forum, a not-for-profit organisation) has made a substantial funding contribution to the new Event Apprenticeships scheme to help it develop and promote apprenticeships to the UK events industry.
The Event Apprenticeships scheme, of which EVCOM has been a Supporting Partner since its inception, aims to produce inclusive and accessible apprenticeships that meet the needs of the events industry by delivering skilled and confident people with a desire to succeed and contribute to the wider events ecosystem. They want to create at least 3 more event-specific apprenticeships within 3 years, to see at least 5,000 apprentices across event-related apprenticeships in 5 years alongside the creation of a self-funded scheme with paid management and marketing.
The funding received by EIF will support the aims of the programme, helping companies to understand the value and processes associated with employing apprentices, to promote event apprenticeships to the wider community, and to enable people from all backgrounds and ages gain experience and relevant professional qualifications within the events industry.
Richard Waddington, on behalf of Events Apprenticeships said: “We’re extremely grateful for the support and commitment EIF are showing us, along with our many other industry partners. Our industry is facing a massive challenge in both recruiting, developing and retaining talent within our sector. With the industry now starting to work together to develop apprenticeships, they will become a well needed route into driving greater diversity and inclusion.”
Steve Heap Chair of EIF said: “Richard presented the vision for Events Apprenticeships to the Board and all the hard work the EAAB (events apprenticeships advisory board) have done to date, which is phenomenal for a group of volunteers – apprenticeships and awareness of them is paramount for the future of our industry – we all need to get out there and bang the drum to drive this forward. EIF are extremely proud to be supporting this industry initiative and working with them to take it forward.”
There is still a lot more to be done and support from other parts of the industry is still needed, but this is a wonderful indication of what is in store for Event Apprenticeships.
If you want to donate to the Crowdfunder, you can do so here. Any support is much appreciated, and make a huge difference to young talent and to the wider industry.