Using Alumni to Inspire Apprenticeship Pathways – Thomas Gainsborough School
June 26, 2026
During National Apprenticeship Week, Thomas Gainsborough School delivered a series of virtual sessions to provide students with direct insight into apprenticeship pathways through the experiences of recent alumni.
Each session took the form of a 20-minute Zoom call, scheduled daily during registration time, making it easy for all year groups to attend without disruption to the wider timetable. The sessions featured former students who are now progressing successfully through apprenticeships, alongside an employer representative.
A diverse range of sectors was covered, including:
- Law
- Engineering
- Accountancy
- IT
Students also gained valuable insight from local employer British Sugar, who shared an employer’s perspective on apprenticeship opportunities.
The format was kept simple but effective. Alumni and employers were provided with a set of questions in advance, ensuring they felt confident and prepared. During each session, students had the opportunity to ask live questions, creating a dynamic and interactive experience.
The initiative generated very positive feedback from both students and staff. Students were highly engaged, with many commenting on how valuable it was to hear directly from relatable role models who had recently been in their position. The sessions sparked meaningful discussions and increased awareness of apprenticeship routes across multiple sectors.
This approach demonstrates that high-impact employer engagement can be simple to set up and deliver.
Top tips for replication
- Keep sessions short and fit them into existing timetable slots
- Brief speakers in advance with guiding questions
- Include both alumni and employers for a balanced perspective
- Allow time for student questions to maximise engagement