Students celebrated National Apprenticeship Week with a day of activities designed to help them find opportunities.

The Braintree campus of Colchester Institute hosted more than 1,400 pupils from schools around the district.

The event gave students the opportunity to find out more about the apprenticeship and career paths open to them when they leave education.

Employers and apprenticeship experts were on hand to talk to the students.

Many did not realise they could do apprenticeships in their chosen career.

Amanda Drew, director of apprenticeships and business solutions, said: “This year’s event showcased the Institute’s continued growth in the variety of apprenticeship standards offered, the increase of employers working with Colchester Institute and the diversity of ages of those enrolling into apprenticeships.

“Those coming along to the event were able to better understand how their choice of an apprenticeship could progress their career choice up to degree level without incurring any cost to themselves.”

Students also got to see the new facilities at the Braintree campus, including the new learning and technology centre.