New Apprenticeship Ambassador Programme Launches
A brand-new initiative is being launched in Moray to empower young people, support employers, and strengthen local talent pipelines. The Apprenticeship Ambassador Development Programme, delivered by DYW Moray in partnership with DP Leadership, will give apprentices and recent completers the chance to develop their confidence, communication, and leadership skills—while inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.
New Apprenticeship Ambassador Programme Launches in Moray to Inspire the Next Generation
A brand-new initiative is being launched in Moray to empower young people, support employers, and strengthen local talent pipelines. The Apprenticeship Ambassador Development Programme, delivered by DYW Moray in partnership with DP Leadership, will give apprentices and recent completers the chance to develop their confidence, communication, and leadership skills—while inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.
The Story Behind the Programme
The idea for the programme came from Aimee Stephen, Apprenticeship Development Manager at DYW Moray. Aimee’s journey through apprenticeships has shaped both her career and her passion for creating opportunities for others.
Aimee first discovered work-based learning through a Foundation Apprenticeship while still at school, before completing a Modern Apprenticeship with DYW Moray. She then progressed to a Graduate Apprenticeship in Business Management with Robert Gordon University, also supported by DYW Moray, graduating with 1st class honours in 2024.
Drawing on her own experience, Aimee recognised that apprenticeships weren’t widely spoken about in schools when she was younger and that this lack of visibility is still a challenge today. She wanted to change that. Aimee explains:
“When I was at school, apprenticeships weren’t really discussed as a career pathway. I wanted to create something that would ensure young people hear directly from apprentices about their experiences and opportunities, something I would have benefited from myself.”
Aimee also saw that apprentices don’t often have a professional network, especially those who don’t attend college and therefore have fewer chances to connect with peers in similar roles. The new Apprenticeship Ambassador Development Programme will help to bridge that gap building a community of support, collaboration, and shared purpose among apprentices across Moray. She adds:
“This programme isn’t just about developing skills. It’s about building a network where apprentices can learn from each other, share their journeys, and feel part of something bigger.”
About the Programme
The year-long initiative will bring together apprentices from across Moray to represent their organisations and share their stories through school talks, careers events, and workshops.
Through a series of interactive workshops at UHI Moray, delivered by DP Leadership, participants will develop skills in confidence, teamwork, communication, and leadership. They will also take part in at least three outreach activities throughout the year, helping to raise awareness of apprenticeship pathways and highlight the wealth of opportunities available locally.
Apprentices will be supported to track their progress at the start, middle, and end of the programme, reflecting on how their skills and confidence have grown. Aimee Stephen said:
“The Apprenticeship Ambassador Development Programme was created to empower young people to develop their confidence, leadership, and communication skills while inspiring the next generation of apprentices across Moray. By sharing their own experiences, these ambassadors will play a key role in promoting the value of apprenticeships and the opportunities they create. DYW Moray is proud to be the first DYW regional group in Scotland to launch an initiative of this kind, demonstrating our continued commitment to innovation and to supporting young people and employers across our region.”
A Collaboration with DP Leadership
The programme is being supported voluntarily by DP Leadership, founded by Dave Marshall, whose career spans the RAF, leadership coaching, and the private sector. With over 35 years of leadership experience, Dave brings a unique perspective to developing people and teams.
Through his work, Dave supports senior leaders and organisations to overcome challenges such as poor communication, low morale, and unclear decision-making. By applying this expertise to the Apprenticeship Ambassador Programme, he is helping young people develop the same leadership mindset, building apprentices who return to their workplaces more confident, better communicators, stronger team players, and future leaders ready to make a positive impact. Dave Marshall, Founder of DP Leadership said:
“We’re delighted to be partnering with DYW Moray on this exciting initiative. This programme gives young people the chance to develop essential life and leadership skills that will benefit them throughout their careers. Our workshops focus on self-awareness, confidence, presenting, and communication, all crucial for future success. We can’t wait to see these ambassadors grow and become inspiring role models within their communities.”
Programme Aims
The Apprenticeship Ambassador Development Programme has been designed to:
- Empower young people to become confident role models and advocates for apprenticeships.
- Support employers in developing skilled, motivated, and engaged employees.
- Raise awareness of apprenticeship pathways and opportunities across Moray.
- Strengthen connections between young people, education, and employers.
Who Can Take Part
The programme is open to young people aged 16–24 who are currently undertaking or have recently completed a Foundation, Modern, or Graduate Apprenticeship within the last three years.
Each employer can nominate up to five apprentices or recent completers to take part, with support to attend workshops and outreach events throughout the year.
Launch Event
All successful applicants are invited to attend the official launch event to begin their ambassador journey:
Date: Monday, 17 November 2025
Time: 1:00pm – 4:00pm
Location: UHI Moray
Refreshments will be provided. Participants should arrange their own travel.
Become an apprenticeship ambassador
Get Involved
Employers wishing to nominate apprentices or recent completers can do so by completing a short registration survey, to be filled in by both the apprentice and their mentor:
For more information, please contact:
Aimee Stephen
Apprenticeship Development Manager, DYW Moray
Email: aimee.stephen.moray@uhi.ac.uk