National Apprenticeship Week (9th-15th February) underlines the value of skills investment in building the workforce of tomorrow

Lucy Robinson (Credit: EMC)

East Midlands Chamber has said National Apprenticeship Week is a ‘golden opportunity’ for employers to find out more about the benefits of engaging with an apprenticeship scheme.

National Apprenticeship Week runs from 9th to 15th February 2026 and aims to ‘shine a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships make to individuals, businesses and the wider economy’.

East Midlands Chamber Director of Resources Lucy Robinson said: “Time and time again, East Midlands businesses that embrace apprenticeship schemes report excellent outcomes and when you consider that six out ten employers in the region have struggled to find suitably skilled candidates, according to the findings of our Quarterly Economic Survey, apprenticeships are an avenue worth exploring.

“What you get with an apprenticeship is a win-win for all parties – the business gets someone they can shape to the needs of that specific role, while the apprentice qualifies with the ability to carry out the actual tasks required.

“When recruiting, many businesses don’t have the luxury of time to train someone up that might be missing a few skills, while endless interviewing and long-winded sifting processes to find someone that can hit the ground running are painful for both the applicant and the hirer.

“The buzz of activity around National Apprenticeship Week is a golden opportunity for anyone dipping their toe in the water, whether a business or individual, to go a little further and explore the types and levels of apprenticeship that might be open to them.”

West Nottinghamshire College Assistant Director of Future Ready Karen Millward said: “Apprenticeships play a vital role in Mansfield and Ashfield, offering an achievable, alternative route to skills, employment and long-term economic growth. In communities such as ours, that have been shaped by industrial change, apprenticeships provide a practical, debt-free pathway for people to earn while they learn, gain recognised skills and build meaningful careers closer to home.

“They open doors for young people and career-changers alike, improving social mobility and helping residents progress into skilled, sustainable employment. For local employers, apprenticeships help address skills shortages by developing talent trained to meet real business need. By investing in apprentices, businesses can strengthen productivity, improve staff retention and build a workforce that is rooted in the local area.

“At a wider level, apprenticeships support Mansfield and Ashfield’s regeneration by reducing unemployment, tackling skills gaps and keeping opportunity within our communities – not to mention the provision of clear succession planning for many employers who admit to having an ‘ageing workforce’.

“They are not just an education route but a long-term investment in people, businesses and the future prosperity of the area.”

Derby College Group Director of Employer Partnerships Carol Dixon said: “Apprenticeships play a crucial role in developing the skilled, adaptable workforce our region and economy need, offering individuals the opportunity to earn while they learn and gain industry-recognised qualifications that open real career pathways.

“Derby College Group’s National Apprenticeship Week programme, from campus recruitment pop-ups and sector-focused insight events to our Apprenticeship Week Open Evening, reflects our commitment to connecting learners with employers and showcasing these opportunities to our communities.

“We believe apprenticeships not only empower our learners but also strengthen the regional workforce, helping address skills needs and underpin sustainable economic growth.”