National Apprenticeship Week 2026
National Apprenticeship Week is a week-long celebration (9 – 15 February), that brings together businesses and apprentices across the country to shine a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships make to individuals, businesses and the wider economy. The theme for #NAW2026 is Skills for Life, with daily themes including:
- SKILLS FOR LIFE – Mon 9 Feb
- EMPLOYER TUESDAY – Tue 10 Feb
- APPRENTICE WEDNESDAY – Wed 11 Feb
- T LEVEL THURSDAY – Thu 12 Feb
- CELEBRATION FRIDAY – Fri 13 Feb
- THE NAW WEEKENDER – Sat 14 and Sun 15 Feb
At South West Yorkshire Partnership Teaching NHS Foundation Trust we offer a range of apprenticeship programmes, enabling our existing and new staff to enhance their skills and creating a fantastic opportunity for people to step into learning
Our dedicated Trust-wide service reflects the Trust’s commitment to promoting a culture of lifelong learning across all services and staff groups in line with our mission, vision, values and goals. Our aim is to support and encourage staff to access learning and development opportunities which will strengthen the appropriate attitudes, behaviours, skills and knowledge which uphold Trust organisational values and strengthen our services.
“One of our main aims as a Trust is developing our people to help them achieve their full potential. A favoured route for supporting career progression is apprenticeships. I want to take this opportunity to thank all our apprentices and highlight the significant value they bring to our organisation.
Since we began offering apprenticeships, 434 colleagues have successfully completed programmes across 28 different apprenticeship standards. This is a fantastic achievement and a clear reflection of the breadth of opportunities available within our Trust.
To support this year’s awareness week, learning and development apprenticeship facilitator Jenny Richmond has organised a series of informative virtual sessions, giving colleagues the chance to learn more about the options available, hear real experiences, and explore how an apprenticeship could benefit their career.
I strongly encourage all staff to take a moment to look at the sessions planned and consider how an apprenticeship might support your own development—or that of someone in your team. Keep an eye out for information and case studies throughout the week on our social media channels.”
Mark Brooks
Chief Executive
Who are apprenticeships for?
- People of all ages, from school leavers to experienced workers
- Existing employees who wish to up-skill within their job role
- Existing employees as a means of continuing professional development within their job role
Meet our apprenticeship facilitator… Jenny Richmond
“Hey everyone! For those who don’t know me yet, I’m Jen Richmond, and I’ve been in the role of apprenticeship facilitator here at the Trust for the last five and a half years.
Before this, I spent many years working in the training and welfare to work sector, helping people in the community find training and job opportunities. It’s always been my passion to help people achieve their dreams, and this role has allowed me to continue doing this.
Since joining the Trust, I’ve been on a mission to grow our apprenticeship offerings, and my goal is to keep expanding these opportunities so all staff can have the chance to progress and gain qualifications.
When I’m not working, you’ll probably find me sweating it out in a Hot Yoga class or cheering on Leeds United (through all of the ups and downs, of course!).
This week is National Apprenticeship Week, and I’ve got lots of information sessions lined up, so please check the timetable below and get booking a session of interest.”
Jenny Richmond
Apprenticeship facilitator
What’s happening during National Apprenticeship Week?
Throughout the week, we’re holding information sessions for our staff to learn about what apprenticeships would involve and how to apply.
- Monday 9 February 2026: 2pm to 3pm – Leadership and management session
- Tuesday 10 February 2026: 11am – 12.00 – Coaching
- Tuesday 10 February 2026: 2pm – 3pm – AHP professions
- Wednesday 11 February 2026: 2pm – 3pm – Administration
- Friday 13 February 2026: Leadership and management session
- Friday 13 February 2026: 11.30am – 12.30pm – Data technician
- Friday 13 February 2026: 1pm – 2pm – Data analyst
Please contact Jenny.richmond@swyt.nhs.uk for more information or to book onto an information session.
Visiting students to talk about apprenticeships
As part of National Apprenticeship Week 2026, our apprenticeship facilitator Jenny Richmond and employability facilitator Rebecca Miller-Andrews visited Rida Girls High School on Monday 9 February to talk to students about apprenticeships and T-Levels.
It was a delight to talk and engage with students interested in apprenticeships and the types of opportunities and pathways available within our Trust. Students had the opportunity to ask Jenny and Rebecca questions, advice and support about the apprenticeship and T-Level application process, opportunities and career prospects.
Reflecting on the event, Jen said:
“It was wonderful to see such a strong interest in NHS careers from so many students. Their enthusiasm really stood out — they asked thoughtful questions, and showed a lot of ambition.
Did you know…
Our Trust currently has 209 live apprentices! A huge thank you to all our apprentices for everything you do.
Over 1500 students attended a virtual South Yorkshire School engagement event this morning. Learning about NHS careers and how apprenticeships are an important route to consider. If you have completed an apprenticeship and would like to become a future apprenticeship ambassador, please contact Jenny Richmond.
T-Level Thursday
Shout out to all T-Level students within the Trust, thank you for all your hard work and commitment. You really are helping your teams make a difference.
Meet Sam Wasteney one of our T-Level digital students from 2024/2025, who is now a substantive member of staff within the Barnsley community team. Sam shares his journey and experience below:
“Hi everyone, I am Tiffany one of the practice learning facilitators (PLFs) here at the Trust for nearly three years Before taking up this role, I worked for the University of Huddersfield as a clinical educator for trainee nursing associates helping implement the new role to nursing from the very start of it being developed as an apprenticeship. But before this, my background was working as an A&E nurse where I thoroughly enjoyed giving my patients the best care and also supporting learners to be able to do the same.
Since joining the Trust my role has allowed me to offer support to those undertaking apprenticeships both nursing and AHP. Helping them to understand what being an apprentice means, the new terminology, the course plans and working with Universities to help plan placement opportunities but mostly offering a listening ear and helping with the transition of becoming a learner and employee at the same time.
When I’m not working I spend my time with my two kids (age 5 and age 3) and cocker spaniel. I like to get out running and I’m proud to say I once ran a full marathon in 4 hours and 57 minutes (bur promised myself never again!)
I hope you have enjoyed everything planned this National Apprenticeship Week! It would be great to see many more of you choosing an apprenticeship to enhance your careers with us in the Trust.”
Tiffany Atkinson
Practice learning facilitator
Did you know…
In 2025, 86 staff members from our Trust successfully completed their apprenticeships!
Well done to all our colleagues for this fantastic achievement. To celebrate your hard work and success, you will all soon receive invitations to the upcoming 2026 recognition awards, to held in May.
My apprenticeship experience… James Mountain
For National Apprenticeship Week 2026 apprentice podiatrist James Mountain talks about his apprenticeship journey. James shares his experience, ambitions and advice for anyone interested in apprenticeships below:
