APPRENTICESHIP ESSENTIALS FOR SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES
Practical, flexible eLearning designed to help you support apprentices with confidence.
These fully funded eLearning courses have been created especially for those working with apprentices in small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
They form part of the Apprenticeship Workforce Development (AWD) offer, funded by the Department for Education (DfE) and delivered by the Education Training Foundation (ETF) in partnership with the Association of Colleges (AoC), the Association of Employment and Learning Providers (AELP), the Strategic Development Network (SDN) MESMA Group, and the University Vocational Awards Council (UVAC).
"I've seen it first hand and with the right approach, apprentices can be a powerful engine for growth, for individuals and for the business." Steven Wilde, author of Growing and Retaining Apprentices, Southbourne Rubber
WHY THIS MATTERS
Research shows from the Apprenticeship Non-Completer Survey 2023 that apprenticeships succeed when employers feel confident and supported. A recent survey found that over 35% of apprentices who left their programme said extra support might have helped them stay, and 10% cited lack of time for learning as a challenge.
Supporting apprentices effectively is one of the most powerful ways to improve retention and achievement, helping them to success and strengthening your business. These courses give you practical tools, confidence, and strategies to make apprenticeships work, without adding extra workload. A small investment of time now can lead to better retention, stronger teams, and a positive experience for everyone.
THE SME OFFER
This support consists of four new eLearning courses, each focused on a key theme that shapes apprenticeship success.
Anyone in an SME who supports apprentices, whether you're a line manager, mentor, buddy or coach. Whether you have one apprentice or a team of 100, these courses are designed for you.
Getting Apprenticeships Right from the Start
Lay strong foundations for success.
Managing and Supporting Apprentices in the Workplace
Practical tools for day-to-day support.
Coaching Apprentices and Developing a Learning Culture
Create supportive workplaces that drive achievement.
Supporting Apprentices Through Assessment, Wellbeing and Next Steps
Help apprentices stay motivated and complete with confidence.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to videos, audio clips, and case studies. (Please note, names and job titles were correct at the time of production but may have changed since.