Devon Apprentice Ella Fielding is the driving force behind a high profile event showcasing Apprentices and Apprentice employers.

The Apprenticeship Expo 2016 is one of the largest events of its kind in the South West, celebrating businesses that employ Apprentices and promoting the benefits of Apprenticeships.

The showcase is taking place at the Exeter College Technology Centre at Monkerton on Tuesday 15th March 2016 between 5pm and 8pm.

Exeter College Business Apprentice Ella Fielding is coordinating and project managing this year’s Expo. Ella, who is from Ottery St Mary, joined Exeter College as an Apprentice in December 2015 and was given the opportunity to co-ordinate the event now in its second year. The South West Apprenticeships Ambassador Network and Exeter College jointly launched the Expo in 2015 and this year’s event runs as part of National Apprenticeship Week running from 14th to 18th March 2016.

Businesses who employ, or who are looking to employ Apprentices have been invited to be part of the event. This gives them access to the next generation of talent from across Devon and show them why their business is the one to work for.

Businesses already signed up to the event include the Met Office, South West Water, South Western Ambulance Service, Midas, Gregory Distribution Ltd, Alcoa, Redrow Homes, Evans Transport and Landmark Information Group. These organisations will be showcasing their company and be offering face to face guidance on the Apprenticeships that they offer.

Organiser and Apprentice Ella Fielding said: “Having attended last year’s Expo as a potential Apprentice, co-ordinating the event this year has been a real challenge. Seeing the event from both sides has made me appreciate how much hard work goes into organising an event of this size and reflect on how smoothly it all transpires on the night.”

Fiona Parsons, spokesperson for the South West Apprenticeships Ambassadors’ Network said: “Ella, by applying the technical knowledge and wider range of interpersonal skills developed through her Apprenticeship, has brought real drive and enthusiasm to the organisation of this large and important event.”

The Apprenticeship Expo 2016 is open to anyone interested in finding out more about Apprenticeships.

For more information please visit www.exe-coll.ac.uk/Expo16 or call 01392 400400, or email BusinessSolutions@exe-coll.ac.uk.