Bradford City come out on top at our first-ever Apprenticeship Games

It was ‘The Bantams’ who ruled the roost, at the Bradford College Apprenticeship Games this Thursday.

The day, hosted in David Hockney Building, saw partners from across the district come together, competing to be crowned 2023 champions.

Following a 9am arrival and breakfast in The Grove to fuel the participants, six teams were faced with six different challenges throughout the day, specially thought out by College curriculum staff.

The full list of competitors included Bradford City AFC, Bradford Bulls RLFC, JCT600, Bradford Teaching Hospitals, Spooks of Haworth and our very own Apprenticeships team.

Teams took part in a range of activities, replicating various apprenticeship skills, from virtual welding to e-sports.

After a full day of fun and healthy competition, it was the team of four from Bradford City that took top spot – following a tense end to proceedings.

The club’s Chief Commercial Officer, Davide Longo, said: “We’ve really enjoyed it. There’s been some good banter and it’s been good for team spirit.

“It’s nice to get out of our own office for what’s been a really interesting day. It’s definitely been a success and I’d highly recommend it.”

Davide featured as part of City’s team of four, alongside Michael Shackleton, Bradleigh Poli and Paula Watson, who all work for the League Two club.

Speaking about the importance of days like this and strong relationships between businesses in the district, Davide also said: “Partnerships are really important. We have a partnership with Bradford College through the apprenticeship scheme, and also a number of the teams who are here.

“It’s really good to meet new people, in a very informal way and we’ve enjoyed every minute of it.”

Ian Stafford, Commercial Manager at Bradford Bulls RLFC, also had glowing feedback for the event: “What a really great day, we’ve all thoroughly enjoyed it.

“It’s a great initiative, we’ve loved the variation and it’s been a pleasure to support Bradford College with this. Well done to all concerned!”

The event itself came as part of Bradford College’s wider campaign to celebrate National Apprenticeship Week 2023, with the theme of ‘Skills For Life’.

This special week is a nationwide initiative to shine a light on the apprentices, employers and providers who make apprenticeships great.

Nicky Betteridge, Senior Business Development Officer at Bradford College Apprenticeships, said: “It was a brilliant day, which everyone really enjoyed.

“There was a real buzz after the awards and the feedback has been amazing. Every team has said they will definitely be entering next year and can’t wait for it!

“Everybody was so competitive and it was brilliant to see them working together to try win each challenge.

“It’s helped us to promote apprenticeships and gave us the opportunity to host a great, fun event with some of the largest employers in Bradford. I’m sure the event will grow year-on-year.

“Congratulations to Bradford City, who lifted the trophy to become our 2023 champions.”

If you are interested in speaking to our team about apprenticeships, you can call us on

01274 728316