The importance of apprenticeships: skills for life

This National Apprenticeship Week we are looking at how apprenticeships can equip you with future-ready skills and knowledge.

As the National Apprenticeship Week 2023 kicks off, we are reflecting on the many benefits apprenticeships bring the CA community. Now in its sixteenth year, this week is dedicated to celebrating apprenticeships taking place across England.

We have a strong history of supporting apprenticeships. Apprenticeships bring a lot of benefits to both businesses and individuals. As innovation continues to drive change forward, apprenticeships are evolving and increasing in the areas of technology, green and environmental roles. It is encouraging to see new ideas and ways of thinking translate into new apprenticeship opportunities for future generations.

The theme of this year’s National Apprenticeship Week 2023 is ‘Skills for life’. This reflects on how apprenticeships can help individuals to develop the skills and knowledge required for a rewarding career. It also enables businesses to develop a talented workforce, equipped with future-ready skills.

As an apprentice you can earn while you learn and the route is helping to open up accountancy as a career option for individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. Employers benefit too as the apprenticeship programmes offer an innovative, low-cost way to upskill staff while bringing fresh talent into the business.

During this week, take some time to reflect on whether you could personally benefit from an apprenticeship programme, or whether your organisation could support the aims of National Apprenticeship Week by championing ‘Skills for life’.

About National Apprenticeship Week

National Apprenticeship Week takes place from 6 to 12 February. This year’s theme is Skills for life, reflecting on how apprenticeships can help individuals to develop the skills and knowledge required for a rewarding career.

Find out more about National Apprenticeship Week

In England, apprentices can complete their ICAS qualification as part of the Level 7 Accountancy/Taxation Professional Apprenticeship. This apprenticeship is available to all employers in England. More information about the Level 7 Apprenticeship can be found on the UK government website.

Following on from the National Apprenticeship Week, the Scottish Apprenticeship Week takes place from 6 to 10 March. In Scotland, the RGU Graduate Apprenticeship in Accounting BA (Hons) is an accredited work-based learning programme. It combines an honours degree from Aberdeen’s Robert Gordon University with the globally recognised ICAS Chartered Accountant qualification. Keep an eye out for more information on Scottish Apprenticeships during this year’s campaign week via our website and social media channels.