Train Tameside 500 launch to boost local employment and training
Mon, 27 October 2025
Tameside College, in collaboration with Tameside Council, has launched an apprenticeship recruitment campaign to create new training opportunities in the borough.
Train Tameside 500 is a two-year project to encourage employers to sign up a total of 500 apprentices and help meet growing skill demands in all sectors including high demand areas such as construction, engineering, automotive and health and social care.
The campaign was launched on Friday 24th October, at the college’s Restaurant at Tameside One, with the support of prominent councillors and politicians. Five local employers, representing key sectors, were recognised as Train Tameside 500 ambassadors to act as role models for skills and training in Tameside.
Carl Shaw, assistant principal at Tameside College, said: “The launch of Train Tameside 500 raises awareness of local employers and the importance of skills and training in industry. As the leading further education provider and number one provider of apprenticeships in Tameside, we are working alongside Tameside Council to encourage employers to consider apprenticeships and work experience placements.”
Tameside Council Executive Leader Cllr Eleanor Wills said: “I’m very excited by the launch of Train Tameside 500, a bold and ambitious collaboration to deliver 500 new apprenticeships between now and July 2027. It’s about creating pathways into employment for our young people – giving them the opportunity to learn, earn and build confidence, skills and a career. The Council is fully supporting the scheme by opening up 50 apprenticeships a year and I’d urge other employers in the borough to get on board for the benefit of both our young people and your business.”
Whitecroft Lighting, a Train Tameside 500 ambassador, were one of the employers to share their experiences as an apprenticeship provider with other employers at the launch. The local firm recently accepted three apprenticeship awards at the regional event of the National Apprenticeship Skills award, including: ‘Large Apprenticeship Employer of the Year award’.
To find out more about visit the college’s website www.tameside.ac.uk or call 0161 908 6600.