National Apprenticeship Week

Welcome to the 19^th year of National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) — a celebration of opportunity, ambition, and real-world learning.

This dedicated Information, Advice and Guidance Hub, offers an opportunity, shared in partnership with your employer, to explore how an apprenticeship can support your career progression and professional development. Here, you'll find information on what apprenticeships involve, the benefits they offer and how they can help you grow in your role.

Get involved in one of three simple ways:

Live Chat - speak instantly with our expert team, no question too big or too small!
Contact Form - submit your questions or register your interest and we'll email you tailored information.
Book a meeting - arrange a one-to-one Teams meeting to discuss your options.

Whether you're looking to upskill, re-train, or take the next step in your career, this is your opportunity to receive expert guidance and invest in your future—right where you work.

What is an apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a paid job that combines practical work experience with formal training, allowing you to gain skills and a recognised qualification while earning a wage.

Who can do an apprenticeship?

Anyone in England aged 16 years old and above. There is no upper age limit.

Do I have to pay fees to do an apprenticeship?

No, apprentices cannot be asked to contribute financial to the cost of training or End Point Assessment (EPA). Apprenticeships are funded via government schemes with employers.

When can I start an apprenticeship?

At Straight A apprenticeships can start at any time. We work on a bespoke basis with all our employer partners and apprentices.

How does an apprenticeship work?

The company you are employed by pays your wages and gives you 'on-the-job' training to perform your role in the workplace (the exact details of your role and training will depend on the job, on the apprenticeship standard and on the sector/industry).

Your 'off-the-job' training is provided and structured by Straight A Training. You will be assigned a dedicated tutor, who you will work with for the duration of the apprenticeship on a one-to-one basis.

The off-the-job training is completed during your normal working hours for the purpose of achieving the Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours (KSB's) within the apprenticeship standard you are working towards. Off-the-job training can include the teaching of theory, practical training, shadowing, mentoring and time spent completing learning support activities and writing assignments.

How is the training delivered?

All learning takes place online; we use an e-portfolio, (One File), therefore communication and correspondence is constant and can be undertaken via this method as well as telephone, WhatsApp, virtual Teams meetings and face to face meetings. Tutors support and work with apprentices to build a robust relationship, to teach them throughout the programme and to prepare them for their End Point Assessment (EPA).

How long does an apprenticeship last?

The length of your on programme learning and associated end point assessment process is determined by the specific apprenticeship standard.

However, the minimum duration for an apprenticeship standard is a year, allowing for quality, dedicated learning, and independent end-point assessment.

How will I be assessed?

All apprenticeship standards culminate with an End Point Assessment (EPA). It's the final assessment that apprentices have to pass to gain their qualification. The assessment process and length vary by each standard, but it is always performed by an End Point Assessment Organisation (EPAO). Straight A make the necessary arrangements between the apprentice and the appropriate EPAO for each standard.

Assessment methods vary from multiple choice tests, practical observations and professional discussions to work-based projects and portfolios.

Why should I do my apprenticeship with Straight A Training?

As an approved training provider Straight A are subject to the Education & Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) quality arrangements and Ofsted inspections.

We have over 26 years experience in delivering quality training and apprenticeships and were rated as 'Good' by Ofsted in our most recent inspection in 2025.

We are experts in our field and pride ourselves on ensuring we identify the right apprenticeship standard to benefit the individual's career progression and social mobility. Whilst also ensuring a good fit with an employer.

Earn while you learn - you do not pay tuition fees to complete an apprenticeship.
Achieve a recognised qualification to enhance your career progression and salary.
Save on travel - apprentices get 30% off travel with an apprentice Oyster card.
Access exclusive discounts - a TOTUM card offers exclusive retail discounts.
Potential council tax reduction - 25% or more if you earn £195 per week or less before tax (application via local council).
Gain practical, in-demand skills through hands-on experience.
Develop your English and Maths Functional Skills.

78 %

Reported significant personal growth.

66 %

Gained additional training opportunities.

62 %

Experienced increased confidence.

98 %

Of apprentices who took their End Point Assessment achieved.

50 %

Achieved Distinctions in their End Point Assessment.

75 %

Secured a promotion, increased responsibilities, or a permanent role.

MEET THE TEAM

Our team look forward to hearing from you this National Apprenticeship Week. We are here to answer your questions and support you in exploring apprenticeship pathways. Our Team Leader and Administration Manager will connect you with one of our expert tutors to discuss apprenticeship options tailored to your goals and career aspirations.

Get in touch via live chat, complete an enquiry form, or book a meeting at a time that suits you.

Talk to us to discover how an apprenticeships can support your professional development.