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National Apprenticeship Week 2025: Unlocking Career Opportunities for Young Professionals

Updated: Mar 18

National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) 2025

📅 Date: 10th-16th February

A blue background with two black outlined boxes. The larger box contains the words "National Apprenticeship Week 2025" with the dates 10-16 February in smaller text. The smaller box contains the hashtag NAW2025

Apprenticeships provide hands-on experience, debt-free education, and industry-recognised qualifications, helping to improve employability and develop tailored skills for your chosen career. Whether you're exploring options or currently an apprentice, NAW 2025 is the perfect time to get involved!


✅ Celebrate the value of apprenticeships across the UK

✅ Gain insights into apprenticeship opportunities and career paths

✅ Access resources, advice, and programmes to support your journey


What Are Apprenticeships?

A person stands at a forked path choosing between "Traditional University" and "Apprenticeship," leading to castles under a sunny sky. Each route has a list of benefits for each route.

Apprenticeships allow young people to gain a qualification (a university degree or other forms) while being employed and earning a wage. As a result, apprenticeships provide an alternative to traditional university education. You can find out more about apprenticeships at the NAW website (National Apprenticeship Week 2025, 10 - 16 February 2025).






Types of Apprenticeships in the UK


In the UK, apprenticeships are available at various levels, allowing you to progress through your career with tailored options:

Apprenticeship Level

Equivalent Qualification

Ideal For

Intermediate (Level 2)

Equivalent to GCSEs

Perfect for those starting their career journey and looking for entry-level apprenticeships.

Advanced (Level 3)

Equivalent to A-levels

Ideal for those seeking more specialised training and higher-level qualifications.

Higher (Level 4 & 5)

Equivalent to foundation degrees or HND

Designed for individuals wanting to further their education and expertise in specific fields.

Degree (Level 6 & 7)

University degree

Ideal for those seeking a higher qualification while gaining hands-on experience in a specific industry.


Note: With degree apprenticeships specifically, some companies will support apprentices with obtaining chartership so check out their programme details for this.


Tips to Secure an Apprenticeship


Securing an apprenticeship can be competitive, but with the right approach, you can land your dream apprenticeship role. Here are some apprenticeship tips to help you succeed:

  1. Research Apprenticeship Opportunities: Start by searching for apprenticeship vacancies in your field of interest. Online resources like GOV.UK, Not Going to Uni and RateMyApprenticeship will highlight available positions.

    The homepage of the Not Going to Uni Website with a young man deep in conversation with a young woman.

  2. Tailor Your CV for Apprenticeships: Highlight your skills, relevant experiences, and eagerness to learn. Make sure you do not highlight just any skill but skills which are in the job description for the company you are applying to (back it up with evidence from previous work experience or extracurriculars).


    Boost your job search with AI-powered CV tips! 🚀 Read our blog now and learn how to tailor your CV for maximum impact.

    A graphic with the title "How To Use AI To Secure Interviews". The background images are of an outstretched hand, a bridge with the sun overlooking, the logos of OpenAI and Deepseek and red text containing the words "Best Free AI Model???".

  3. Prepare for Apprenticeship Interviews: Employers want to see your enthusiasm and commitment. Be ready to explain why you want the apprenticeship, what skills you bring, and how it aligns with your career goals. It’s normal to feel nervous so try to channel that energy positively. Practice your answers, take deep breaths beforehand, and focus on showing your enthusiasm for the role.

    For further interview tips, follow our guest speaker, Moazzem Ahmed on LinkedIn (Moazzem Ahmed | LinkedIn).

  4. Network with Employers: Attend apprenticeship fairs and connect with employers through social media (especially LinkedIn) and job platforms. Networking is key in finding hidden apprenticeship opportunities and gaining insights into the application process.


    Applying for apprenticeships can be a lengthy process. The process will continually improve your CV and interview skills so stay determined and patient.


Helpful Resources for Aspiring and Current Apprentices


Whether you’re just starting your apprenticeship journey or are already an apprentice, several resources can offer support and guidance:

A search apprenticeships page from the National Apprenticeship Service

  • National Apprenticeship Service (NAS): The official website offers a wealth of information on apprenticeship schemes, application tips, and industry insights. Visit it for comprehensive details on available apprenticeships in the UK.


  • Apprenticeship Events and Webinars: During National Apprenticeship Week 2025, there will be various apprenticeship events and webinars from current apprentices and employers.

    Explore the must-attend events for National Apprenticeship Week 2025 with the Association of Apprentices. Kicking off on Monday, Feb 10, with the launch of ‘The Toolkit’ resource, followed by a Parliamentary Roundtable on Tuesday, Feb 11. On Wednesday, Feb 12, join an employer panel on ‘Expectation vs Reality’ at KPMG. Thursday, Feb 13, features ‘The BIG Apprentice Meet-Up’ sponsored by KPMG, and Friday, Feb 14, wraps up with a ‘Skills for Life’ masterclass. Plus, don’t miss exclusive announcements and the premiere of ‘Visionary Voices’ with ITN Business!.

  • Online Communities and Forums: Joining apprenticeship forums and social media groups will connect you with other aspiring apprentices and current apprentices, offering advice and support from peers listed below:

The homepage of OuterCircle with a background image of young men and women at an event making a hand symbol of the letters "O" and "C".
Logo for Apprentadream with the letters "A" and D" either side of a line. The letters and the line are broken up by the name "Apprentadream".

  • Employer Websites: Many companies directly offer their own apprenticeship schemes, so be sure to explore their careers sections for apprenticeship vacancies and application details.


Embrace the Power of Apprenticeships


National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) 2025 is a chance to celebrate the value of apprenticeship programmes in the UK and the many opportunities they provide to young people and professionals. Whether you’re just starting your apprenticeship search or looking for advice on progressing through your apprenticeship journey, there is no better time to explore the world of apprenticeships. So, get involved and start building your career with an apprenticeship today!



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