ApprenticeFEST success story highlights real career outcomes for school leavers

Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) North East will host ApprenticeFEST at RGU on the evening of Thursday 26 February, bringing together young people, parents and carers and education providers to explore the wide range of apprenticeship opportunities available across the region.

The event builds on proven success stories from previous sessions, including that of Darshan Upreti, who attended ApprenticeFEST in November 2024 while still at school and exploring future career options in accounting.

After speaking with the Graduate Apprenticeship (GA) team at RGU about the ACCA Accounting Graduate Apprenticeship, Darshan submitted his CV and expressed interest in opportunities within the sector. Shortly afterwards, an introduction was made between Darshan and Aberdeen-based firm SBP Accountants & Business Advisers, who were seeking to recruit a Graduate Apprentice.

Following an interview, Darshan secured a role with SBP upon completing his school year and enrolled on the programme. The course enables students to gain an honours degree and professional chartership in five years while working in paid employment, a pathway that can take up to seven years through more traditional routes.

Stuart Beaton, Associate at SBP, said: “From Darshan attending ApprenticeFEST and seeing that lead directly to employment shows the real value of these events. Graduate Apprenticeships give young people the chance to gain experience while studying, while enabling businesses like ours to invest in developing local talent for the future.”

Graduate Apprenticeships at RGU combine academic learning with practical workplace experience, allowing businesses to develop skilled employees while supporting regional workforce growth. The University’s GA team also works closely with employers to support recruitment, helping match organisations with suitable candidates.

Darshan will return to ApprenticeFEST to share his experience with prospective students, offering first-hand insight into life as a Graduate Apprentice and the transition from school into employment and higher education.

DYW North East, SBP Accountants & Business Advisers and RGU hope the event will encourage more young people and employers to explore apprenticeship routes and recognise the tangible outcomes that collaboration between education and industry can deliver.

The event will run from 18:00 to 20:00. A quieter session will be available from 17:30 for those who prefer a low-sensory environment; attendees are asked to indicate this when registering.