/ Association of Apprentices, News / By

Download the Get Ahead Guide for Managers of Apprentices 2026-2027

2/10/2026

Supporting apprentices. Developing talent. Creating opportunities.

Cover of the Association of Apprentices’ Get Ahead: For Managers of Apprentices 2026-2027 guide, a resource for line managers supporting apprentices, featuring a collaborative workplace meeting scene and Association of Apprentices branding.

Managing an apprentice is different from managing any other employee. Apprentices balance work and learning whilst developing the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed for occupational competence. The Association of Apprentices’ Get Ahead Guide for Managers of Apprentices 2026-2027 has been created to help employers, line managers and mentors support apprentices throughout their apprenticeship journey.
Drawing on insights from more than 4,500 apprentices and contributions from sector experts, the guide provides practical advice, tools and resources to help managers create positive apprentice experiences and support long-term success.
 
What you’ll find inside
  • What apprentices need from managers
  • Creating a strong start and effective onboarding
  • Understanding apprenticeship requirements
  • Making learning time work
  • Working with training providers
  • Common apprentice challenges
  • Supporting progression and career development
  • Professional recognition through PARS
  • Resources and further support

Download your copy. Complete the short form below to access the guide.

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.