The 2025 Winter Apprenticeship cohort includes 50 college and university students, along with 73 high school students, representing one of the programme's strongest intakes to date. Photo:Internet Source

123 students have been placed across the public service and private sectors as part of the Winter Apprenticeship Programme following the relaunch of the Apprenticeship Programme for the December 2025 session. Photo: Government of Virgin Islands

This year's cohort includes 50 college and university students, along with 73 high school students, representing one of the programme's strongest intakes to date. 

The programme broadens access to real-world learning

According to a press release, the programme continues to broaden access to real-world learning, strengthen the education-to-employment pathway, and support emerging talent. This includes students pursuing disciplines in science and medicine, who have been matched with targeted opportunities in their fields of study.

The programme also features expanded collaboration with private entities, further extending the range of professional environments available to participants.

This session sees increased engagement across the Sister Islands, with placements in Virgin Gorda and Anegada. This initiative enables students to gain hands-on experience within essential government services, statutory bodies, and partner organisations in their communities.

An important investment in the future of our young people

Sharleen S. DaBreo-Lettsome, Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Deputy Governor, stated, “The relaunch of the Winter Apprenticeship Programme represents an important investment in the future of our young people and, by extension, the future of our public service. We are encouraged by the overwhelming response from more than 100 applicants seeking hands-on experience. High school and college students benefit greatly from initiatives like this, which help bridge the gap between education and the workplace while building confidence, skills, and career direction. We commend the Human Resources team for securing the funds to support all placements and for their continued commitment to developing the next generation of talent.”

Cara Christopher, Acting Deputy Director of Human Resources, added that the relaunch of the Winter Apprenticeship Programme has been remarkable.

"We received more than 100 applications, an unprecedented milestone for our department. We are pleased to confirm that we secured the funding needed to support all placements, enabling every successful applicant to participate. We are excited to welcome our new cohort and remain committed to creating pathways that help young people build skills, confidence, and clear foundations for their future careers.”

The Winter Apprenticeship Programme is the third session delivered in 2025. 

Earlier sessions held this year were as follows:

• Easter Programme: 38 high school students
• Summer Programme: 22 college students and 3 high school students
• Winter Programme: 44 college students and 79 high school students

In total, 186 students have benefited from apprenticeship opportunities across all three sessions in 2025. The programme continues to provide meaningful placements across ministries, departments, and partner organisations, offering students practical skills-building opportunities, exposure to career pathways, and direct experience in professional settings.