Bradford City AFC emerged victorious in the third annual Bradford College Apprenticeship Games, held to mark National Apprenticeship Week (10th – 16th February). The event, in collaboration with CBRE, brought together teams of apprentices and employers for a day of exciting challenges, celebrating the significance of apprenticeships to individuals, businesses, and the broader economy.
This year’s event saw several teams competing for the coveted title, including representatives from JCT600, Bradford Bulls, Northern Pump Supplies, Aptem, RMA Systems, and CBRE. Each team took part in a variety of themed challenges designed to test their skills, teamwork, and creativity.
CBRE’s Contract Manager, Jay McQuitty, reflected on the importance of the event, saying, “Apprenticeships are a huge part of our industry, and we value them greatly at CBRE. Apprentices contribute significantly to the foundation of our organisation. We’ve had a fantastic time today, and we’re looking forward to future collaborations with Bradford College.”
The competition kicked off with a complimentary breakfast at The Grove Restaurant, where participants had the chance to network and fuel up for the day ahead. Teams then moved to various challenge stations across the David Hockney Building and the newly refurbished Higher Level STEM facility at Garden Mills. These challenges were inspired by sectors that typically offer apprenticeships, with points being awarded for performance throughout the day.
One of the day’s highlights was a fast-paced challenge where participants were tasked with creating a TikTok advertisement for Bradford College’s Digital Apprenticeship programme. Another exciting challenge was organised by CBRE, which involved a darts competition.
After a break for lunch, the event continued with challenges at Trinity Green Campus. Teams participated in a range of activities, including a Bradford City football challenge, a Bradford Bulls wheelchair rugby competition, and a motor vehicle task where teams raced to change a car tyre and place it onto plastic cups for bonus points.
As the final points were tallied up, Bradford City AFC was crowned the 2025 champions, marking a second victory in three years. JCT600 secured second place, with CBRE finishing in third.
Mick Russell, Commercial Executive at Bradford City AFC, expressed his excitement following the victory: “As close partners of Bradford College, we work together throughout the year and are strong advocates for apprenticeships. It’s been a fantastic experience celebrating National Apprenticeship Week with other local employers, and to win today, especially with such strong competition, is incredibly fulfilling.”
This year’s Apprenticeship Games were held during the 18th National Apprenticeship Week, which began in 2007. The event recognises the importance of apprenticeships and the contribution of apprentices, employers, training providers, and other key stakeholders to the success of apprenticeship programmes across the UK.
Bradford College, with over 30 years of experience in delivering apprenticeships, works closely with around 700 employers across the Bradford and Leeds City Region. For more information about the apprenticeship opportunities available, visit www.bradfordcollege.ac.uk/apprenticeships.
