How apprentice mentors are boosting career success and developing the Yorkshire talent pool

We recently saw the return of the West Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards – an event which celebrates the individuals and organisations shaping the future of apprenticeships across the region.

Zenith is the UK’s leading independent leasing provider and, as one of Yorkshire’s largest companies, has developed a programme which ensures apprentices develop the right skillset, experience and knowledge to set them up for working life – both now and in the future.

We’ve seen how skills shortages are impacting many industries, so it’s more important than ever that we, as businesses, work together to ensure Yorkshire’s talent pool remains the best it can be for years to come. But what are the challenges, and how can businesses support apprentices in becoming the best version of themselves?

Understanding what’s right for you

In building our apprenticeship programme, we’ve partnered with local schools and reached out to around 22,000 students across the region. Everywhere we go, there seems to be confusion around apprenticeships – what are they and why should they be chosen over university?

Often university is seen as the most ‘obvious’ route and while it’s undoubtedly a path which suits some, for some vocations, there are more ‘hands on’ ways for others to learn. Plus, with the average university debt now reaching a record high £45,000, isn’t it time that we look at alternative options to ensure our future generations aren’t being locked into financial difficulties before they start work? 

Likewise, it’s important to note that apprenticeships are not just restricted to school leavers. At Zenith, we firmly believe in lifelong learning, and apprenticeships are an ideal way to learn new skills, meet new requirements, change roles or careers and enable skills development, while earning.

To help apprentices become the best version of themselves, we have implemented a framework of support initiatives and training programmes. From working with local schools to make students aware of apprenticeships and hosting interview practice sessions, to providing regular interactive training and skills workshops for our own apprentices, we aim to give those working with us all the knowledge they need, while developing the softer skills to help them thrive in the modern workplace.

We’re continuing to see an increased demand for apprenticeships, with 2023 UCAS application figures highlighting that 40% of students interested in undergraduate study were also interested in apprenticeship options – a 180% increase since 2021. This shows just why a great apprenticeship programme must not be underestimated.

The importance of mentors

To ensure this happens, each Zenith apprentice has their own dedicated mentor – a colleague who is on hand to educate, answer questions and help apprentices to navigate the everyday challenges they may face. Mentors play a key role in our wider programme, and we understand the rewards it reaps in assisting the next generation of talent, too.

That’s why we’re proud to sponsor the Mentor of the Year category at the West Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards. It’s an award that one of our own mentors won in 2022, and allows us to truly celebrate mentors who have given so much to help the development and support of apprentices.

We know firsthand that having a good mentor to learn from can make a huge difference to career success. It’s not something that can be taught overnight – it takes time, energy and commitment to become a good mentor. This is why we looked forward to celebrating those individuals who have given so much to help apprentices thrive, and whose work goes a long way to ensure the Yorkshire talent pool is the best it can be for years to come. 

To find out more about Zenith, the UK’s leading independent leasing provider, and the career opportunities it offers, please visit the website