Access Unlocked: Exploring Apprenticeships as a Pathway to Success

Thinking about your next step after school or college? Not sure if university is right for you—or if there are other options out there? Access Unlocked is your chance to explore apprenticeships as a real alternative and hear straight from people who’ve been there.

Apprenticeships are all about earning while you learn, building real skills in the workplace, and opening doors to careers without the weight of student debt. However, many students (and parents!) are unaware of how they work or the opportunities available. That’s where this event comes in.

Innovative, social impact focused Ed-Tech platform Guapo will be showcasing their latest work and research in championing a new era of access and equity to the workplace and beyond. Guapo empowers young people from underrepresented backgrounds to discover and secure apprenticeships in tech and digital skills — rooted in innovative social impact research from the Surrey Institute of Education.

Across the afternoon, you’ll hear from apprentices sharing their stories, from the challenges they faced to the doors that opened for them. Employers and education experts will also be on hand to explain what they look for, how apprenticeships compare to university, and the best ways to apply. Plus, you’ll have the chance to ask your own questions in interactive sessions designed to give you the answers you need.

The event is delivered in partnership with Queen Mary University London & Investate, the UK’s #1 youth-led community that empowers young people with mentorship, skills, and real opportunities - connecting them to industry leaders and peers at firms like Goldman Sachs, J.P. Morgan, and Clifford Chance.

Whether you’re a student curious about your options, a parent wanting to support your child’s future, or even a teacher helping to guide your students, this event will leave you feeling clearer, more confident, and inspired about the opportunities apprenticeships can offer.

Who should come?

Students aged 16–18, curious about apprenticeships or unsure about university
Parents and carers who want to understand the opportunities available
Teachers and advisors supporting young people’s next steps

Why attend?

Discover how apprenticeships really work – from entry routes to long-term career opportunities
Get honest advice directly from current apprentices and employers
Learn how to stand out in applications and interviews
Leave feeling informed, inspired, and ready to explore all your options

Grab your free ticket now and start unlocking your future!

The event is free to attend and is running as part of the Economic and Social Research Council Festival of Social Science 2025. Tickets are limited and will be issued on a first come first served basis. If you wish to book on behalf of a group (College, School) please email us so we can set this up: j.warsap@surrey.ac.uk.

To find out more about Queen Mary degree apprenticeships, visit: https://www.qmul.ac.uk/
degreeapprenticeships/

See our full programme of events here: Buy tickets – University of Surrey

Please review the University of Surrey's Privacy Notice regarding events here.

Investate x Guapo | Access Unlocked: Pathways to Apprenticeships