As Gateshead College celebrates its 80th anniversary, we’re shining a spotlight on some of the incredible students and apprentices, starting with Nimrah – a PlanBEE apprentice whose story reflects everything the college stands for: innovation, opportunity, and empowerment.
Nimrah is not only undertaking the intensive PlanBEE Higher Apprenticeship Programme—she’s also a UK Ambassador for the Nike-backed Alpine Run Project, making the most of every opportunity that comes her way.
Our PlanBEE programme gives apprentices the opportunity to get a flavour of the wide variety of roles in the built environment sector including architecture, building engineering and construction/site management, before choosing what they enjoy the most.
Nimrah who is in her first year of the programme has already undertaken an engineering placement with RPS, worked as an apprentice site manager with Sir Robert McAlpine and is now making the most of her third placement as a Design Assistant with Ryder Architecture.
“What I love about PlanBEE is that it’s really unique and I haven’t seen anything else like it. You get two years of experience before you commit to a specific area and that’s what makes it so valuable.”
For Nimrah, this flexibility was key. With both creative and technical interests, she wasn’t ready to pick a single career path straight out of school.
“I loved that I wouldn’t be tied down to one sector straight away. This course lets me explore and figure out what truly fits me.”
Working four days a week while studying has helped Nimrah strike the ideal balance between gaining real-world experience and enjoying student life.
“It’s good vibes. I learn, I see my friends, and I feel like I’m doing the right thing for my future.”
As an ambassador for the Nike backed Alpine Run Project, Nimrah dedicates her free-time working as a Youth Advocate, a role she’s incredibly proud of.
“I was thrilled to be chosen as an Ambassador and my aim is to inspire young people and communities that can relate to me – young people who have not participated in sport before or have faced barriers in accessing mountains, nature and the outdoors.
“My role focuses on outreach – engaging young people and promoting exercise and the outdoors through trail running and I’m loving it.”
Building confidence and supporting others has been at the heart of Gateshead College for the last 80 years and as the college celebrates this milestone, Nimrah is proud to be part of our ongoing legacy.
“I think it’s amazing. The college has been so supportive throughout my apprenticeship. The fact that it’s been around for 80 years shows it’s been doing impactful work for a long time.”
When asked to sum up the college in three words, Nimrah doesn’t hesitate: “Fun, vibrant, and outgoing.”
“I think the college reflects my personality, which is probably why I feel so at home here.”
Nimrah has one clear message for anyone thinking about joining Gateshead College:
“I’d definitely recommend it. You meet great people, it’s a relaxed atmosphere, and there’s loads of positive energy. It really is the right place to be.”
As she builds her own career, Nimrah is optimistic about the future – not just for herself, but for the generations of learners still to come.
“I hope the college continues to inspire and guide young people in their careers, just like it has with me. The support I’ve had has made such a difference.”
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