National Apprenticeship Week, taking place from 9 to 15 February 2026, is a chance to reflect on how apprenticeships support skills development, career progression and business growth across the UK.
At Steadfast Training, we work with both employers and learners every day, and we see the long-term impact apprenticeships can have not just on individuals, but on organisations and communities too.
This is a great opportunity to understand what apprenticeships really offer, who they are for, and why they matter.
What Is an Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a paid job that combines practical workplace experience with structured training and a recognised qualification.
Apprentices:
- Work in a real role and contribute to a business
- Receive training relevant to their job
- Build skills, confidence and professional experience over time
This blend of learning and doing is what makes apprenticeships so effective. Knowledge is applied immediately, reinforcing understanding and accelerating development.
Why Apprenticeships Benefit Individuals
An apprenticeship can be a strong alternative to full time education or a powerful route into a new career.
Benefits include:
- Earning a salary while gaining a qualification
- Avoiding or reducing student debt
- Gaining relevant, real world experience
- Improving long term employability
- Developing transferable skills such as communication, teamwork and time management
Apprenticeships are available at different levels and in a wide range of sectors, meaning they suit school leavers, career changers and people returning to work alike.
Why Apprenticeships Benefit Employers
For employers, apprenticeships are a way to build capability within the organisation while supporting professional development.
They help businesses to:
- Address skills gaps in a targeted way
- Develop employees to meet business specific needs
- Improve retention by investing in people
- Build a strong talent pipeline for the future
Rather than recruiting ready made skills, businesses can shape and grow them, creating a workforce that is aligned, engaged and future ready.
Common Apprenticeship Myths
There are still some misconceptions around apprenticeships. A few common ones include:
- “Apprenticeships are only for young people.”
In reality, apprenticeships are open to people of all ages. - “They are only for entry level roles.”
There are higher and degree level apprenticeships covering professional and leadership roles too. - “They do not lead to real careers.”
Many apprentices progress into senior, specialist or management positions.
Understanding the reality helps both individuals and employers make informed decisions.
Learning More During Apprenticeship Week
As part of Apprenticeship Week, Steadfast Training will be hosting two short, free online sessions for anyone who would like to explore the topic further.
- Apprenticeships for Employers: Benefits & Myth Busting
10 February 2026, 2.00pm to 2.30pm - Thinking About an Apprenticeship? Your Questions Answered
10 February 2026, 4.30pm to 5.00pm
You can register for either session here.
A Time to Reflect and Invest in Skills
Apprenticeship Week is not just a celebration. It is a reminder of the importance of skills, learning and opportunity.
Whether you are considering your next step, or thinking about how to support your workforce, apprenticeships offer a practical, inclusive and effective route forward.