Mission Statement

We’re here to support the UK’s hugely talented community of almost one million apprentices be their best. We’re not just for apprentices, our work is also led by apprentices.

We provide the social and broader elements often missing from apprenticeship programmes, with access to advice and guidance which supports life-long career development, and a lifetime of professional networks.

Come together with apprentices past and present to support each other. It’s your association.

Our Corporate Strategy 2026–2030: Together, We Grow

The Association of Apprentices’ Corporate Strategy 2026–2030 sets out our long‑term vision to become the recognised professional home for every apprentice in the UK. Grounded in the belief that apprentices deserve the same community, recognition and voice as any other professional, the strategy focuses on creating a more connected, visible and valued apprenticeship experience across all sectors and backgrounds.

Over the next five years, we will expand our reach, strengthen the relevance of our support, build a resilient organisation and amplify apprentice representation nationally. By working in partnership with employers, training providers and policymakers, we aim to reduce disparities in apprentice support, elevate apprentice voices and help shape a stronger workforce and a more successful society.
Panel discussion with two seated speakers, one speaking into a handheld microphone, beside a graphic reading ‘Association of Apprentices – Together, We Grow – Corporate Strategy 2026–2030’. A note indicates a high‑contrast version is available.
 
You can read the full AoA Strategy 2026–2030 below. A high‑contrast version is available on request — please email hello@associationofapprentices.org.uk.
Corporate Strategy 2026-2030

Find out more about our team here

Apprentice Council

Advisory Panel

Board of Directors

Founding Partners

Executive Team

Contributors

Quick links - News:

Jan Richardson-Wilde

CEO, Occupational Awards Limited

Jan is the CEO of Occupational Awards Limited, a Director of the National Skills Academy for Food and Drink and an FE College Governor. She has over 35 years’ experience in the education sector in strategic and operational management of training programmes with colleges, private training providers, local authorities the voluntary sector and not for profit organisations. Jan has previously been a board member of the Learning and Skills Council, chair of the North Yorkshire Training Provider network and Vice-Chair of Yorkshire Coast College and a Governor of the Grimsby Institute for Further and Higher Education. She has extensive experience of education policy, apprenticeships, qualification, and curriculum development as well as business improvement.

Jan joined OAL in 2019, a leading non-profit industry-focused Awarding and End-Point Assessment Organisation, supporting a wide range of employers and of key stakeholders to succeed and surpass expectations. Jan is committed to continuous improvement and enthusiastic about improving the effectiveness, impact and quality of apprenticeships, education, and training in the UK and internationally. She has a wide range of experience of working in a collaborative context with employers and training providers to develop End Point Assessment, apprenticeships, and a wide range of vocational programmes.