Celebrating the impact of vocational qualifications: Your voices

On Thursday, 7 August 2025, we announced the launch of Vocational Celebration Day. Led in collaboration between Enginuity and specialist awarding organisation and end-point assessment organisation EAL, the new annual event aims to raise the status and profile of the thousands of young people who are driving innovation across sectors.

The official announcement was made by broadcaster and skills champion Steph McGovern, during a Steph on Skills: Powered by Enginuity podcast episode.

As part of the launch, we invited our community to share what vocational qualifications mean to them. The stories we received were powerful, full of pride, gratitude, and reflections on the transformative impact of vocational learning. They also offered valuable advice and encouragement for those considering a vocational qualification or currently pursuing one.

Here are their voices

“From a young age, I have been captivated by the endless possibilities of design and the problem-solving it entails. While my family, all of whom pursued university education, encouraged me to follow the traditional academic route, I always felt drawn to a more practical path.

Initially, the concept of an apprenticeship was unfamiliar to me. That changed when I met a representative from the AMRC Training Centre, who introduced me to the idea and encouraged me to apply. At the time, I was torn between pursuing A-levels or an apprenticeship. However, after spending a week exploring what A-levels would involve, I quickly realised that it wasn’t the right fit for me. The very next day, I submitted my application to AMRC. Although I didn’t receive a response after my first interview, I remained determined. With time running short, I applied for an apprenticeship as an R&D Technician at Balmoral Tanks—and was successful.

Fast forward two years, and the experience has been transformative. I’ve gained invaluable skills in communication, efficiency, workplace positivity, and professional growth—all while enjoying the journey. I am on track to complete my Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship by September 2025 and plan to begin my Degree Apprenticeship with Balmoral Tanks in September 2026.

This apprenticeship has pushed me beyond my comfort zone, and I’m grateful for it. I now approach projects with confidence, engage with colleagues proactively, and seize opportunities without hesitation. While the beginning may be challenging, everything eventually starts to click. I hope my journey inspires others to take that next step—without looking back.” – Hasiba Nawaz, Design Automation Apprentice at Balmoral Tanks Ltd

“At Edge Foundation we promote and support vocational training along with pathways including apprenticeships, FE colleges, T Levels and other skills and vocational-based training. We believe that interactive and engaging real world learning, high quality technical and professional training and rich relationships between education and employers can give young people in particular, the skills and behaviours they need to flourish in their future life and work.” – Al Barker, Communications Manager at Edge Foundation

“Vocational learning improves people's lives. I reflect on my own time studying electrical installation and electrical engineering and the incredible opportunities it has provided me. It aligns with the workplace, so it unlocks your own potential and helps businesses succeed.

To those starting apprenticeships, T levels or other programmes this September and to recent graduates, stay disciplined, make time to revise and keep practising your skills. Over time, you'll become the expert others look up to. Good luck.” – Kevin Sparrow, Senior Industry Manager at EAL

“I believe that we should be celebrating vocational learning. From my own experience as a as a trainee apprentice age 16 and or the true value of embedding work alongside academic education. I think that we should all celebrate the fact that vocational education can get you to exactly the same place as other types of education, and we should talk more about that.” – Paula McMahon, A19 DBFO at Sir Robert McAlpine

“The message that I'd say to vocational learners being celebrated today is this is your moment. Be proud of what you're doing, the journey that you're going on. If you're at the start or near the end, what you're learning will help in your future. Not just help yourself, but help shape communities and influence other people. So keep on going.” – Santina Bunting, Civil Engineering Apprentice at Arup

How to get involved with Vocational Celebration Day

The first Vocational Celebration Day will be held on Thursday, 6 August 2026 and aims to honour those whose passion, expertise, and dedication in vocational fields form the backbone of the UK’s economy and society.

Vocational Celebration Day is a call to action for all individuals, employers, educators, and communities. Here is how to get involved:

• Employers can host open days, offer work experience opportunities, and share success stories of their workforce.
• Schools, colleges and training providers are encouraged to organise workshops and events that showcase vocational pathways and the talents of their students.
• Individuals can participate by sharing their vocational journey on social media using #VocationalCelebrationDay and #CelebrateVocational

To learn more about Vocational Celebration Day, listen to our special launch edition podcast or download our supporters' pack by visiting the landing page below.

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