21 January 26

National Apprenticeship Week — Support, events, and opportunities

This year, National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) runs from 9 to 15 February.

Four people in high-vis in a construction setting all looking at a diagram

 

This week-long celebration highlights the positive impact of apprenticeships not only on those who do them, but on businesses and the wider economy.

Many people still think apprenticeships are just for school‑leavers, but that couldn’t be further from the truth!

Apprenticeships are open to everyone post-16, and they’re a brilliant way to restart your career, switch to something new, or take the next step in your current role.

National Apprenticeship Week events

You can view a wide range of events taking place, including in the Trafford and Greater Manchester area, on the NAW website.

Why should you do an apprenticeship?

If you’re on the fence about becoming an apprentice, these benefits might sway you:

  • Apprenticeships provide you with hands-on learning and practical experience in your chosen field.
  • You get a salary throughout your training period.
  • Apprenticeships can open doors to opportunities in the world of work, whether that’s in the same company or beyond.
  • The practical skills and industry-specific knowledge gained are attractive to future and potential employers.
  • An apprenticeship helps you gain accredited qualifications that can be recognised all over the world.

You can find out more about apprenticeships in our jobs section.

Who can do an apprenticeship?

You can do an apprenticeship as long as you are over 16 when you start, and not in full-time education.

Find an apprenticeship in Trafford

Apprenticeships at the Council

We offer two apprenticeship programmes that will support you to develop your career: our EPIC Apprentice and Upskill programme. 

Our EPIC apprenticeships are positions with an apprenticeship attached, for example, Apprentice IT Technician or Trainee Quantity Surveyor. These roles are for people who don't currently work at the Council.

Alternatively, our Upskill Programme is our internal apprenticeship scheme for colleagues. Since 2017, we have supported over 400 employees to undertake an apprenticeship.

You can read more about apprenticeships at Trafford Council.

Supported internships

We work in partnership with several providers (including The Trafford College Group) to offer a work-based study programme for 16–24-year-olds with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

You can read more about these supported internships on the Trafford College website.