On Thursday 19th March 2026, YMCA Basingstoke welcomed Connor from BCOT (Basingstoke College of Technology) to deliver an employability session focused on apprenticeships and training opportunities available to residents.
The aim was not simply to present options, but to help residents understand what those opportunities could mean for them personally.
Residents attended, with many expressing potential interests. Connor provided clear, practical information about apprenticeships across a wide range of sectors – including digital marketing, health and social care, barbering, plumbing, engineering, construction, creative arts, finance, customer service and business administration.
Key messages included:
- No prior experience is required
- Functional Skills support in English and Maths is available
- Housing benefit remains in place
- Around 70% of apprentices progress into permanent employment
For some residents, this was the first time apprenticeships felt accessible. Misconceptions were addressed, and questions were answered openly.
YMCA Basingstoke’s role was to create an environment where that information could land well. Staff supported the session, encouraged engagement, and remained available afterwards to help residents translate interest into action. Real conversations began immediately, with several residents starting to explore enrolment options straight away.
The session also highlighted an important reality: interest does not always look confident. Anxiety, peer pressure and fear of failure can mask genuine curiosity. Recognising this, the team are planning smaller follow-up sessions and one-to-one support to ensure residents have quieter space to ask questions and build confidence.
An Apprenticeship Recruitment Fair will take place on 15 June 2026 (16:30–19:00), at BCOT and staff are already preparing residents to attend feeling informed and supported.
This session demonstrated the value of partnership – with BCOT bringing specialist knowledge, and YMCA Basingstoke providing the consistent encouragement and follow-through that helps residents take the next step.
Opportunities are there.
With the right support around them, residents are beginning to see that those opportunities are within reach.
