An apprenticeship is a real job with built-in training as part of the employee’s role. Apprentices earn while they learn, developing valuable skills and knowledge through hands-on work and structured training. On successful completion, apprentices gain not only practical experience but also a nationally recognised qualification.

For employers, apprenticeships are an excellent way to upskill their workforce. For employees, they’re a path to growing into their ideal role. Whether it’s a new employee taking their first steps in the workplace or an existing team member aiming to master their field, apprenticeships create opportunities for growth, innovation, and excellence.

Apprenticeships can take anywhere from twelve months to five years to complete, depending on the programme. There are over 600 approved apprenticeship roles available in the United Kingdom. Employers across all industries can hire apprentices as new staff or use apprenticeships to develop the skills of their existing workforce.

Each apprentice is assigned a Training Skills & Development Coach who will support and guide them throughout their apprenticeship. Within 2 to 3 weeks of the induction, the coach will meet with the apprentice and their line manager at the workplace to plan the 20% off-the-job training activities and complete the individual learning plan.

Regular meetings with the Skills & Development Coach are essential to challenge and stretch the apprentice’s learning. Apprentices will also develop new skills, knowledge, and competencies in the workplace that align with the requirements of their apprenticeship standard.

The apprenticeship programme uses blended learning, combining online and face-to-face sessions. Apprentices will need reliable internet access and a suitable device such as a smartphone, laptop, or tablet. Microsoft Teams is the platform for coaching and taught sessions, so it’s important that apprentices have access to the application and are permitted to use it for their training.

During the on-programme phase, apprentices must complete 20% off-the-job training, work towards their qualification if included in their apprenticeship, and achieve Functional Skills qualifications in English, maths, and sometimes ICT, if they do not already hold these.