The Get Ahead Series 2026

Newly-recruited apprentices and line managers of apprentices, this is for you!

Association of Apprentices Get Ahead Series 2026, supporting new apprentices, line managers and employers with apprenticeship onboarding, skills workshops, networking and free guidance

The Association of Apprentices (AoA) is expanding its successful Get Ahead programme into a two-week development series designed to support apprentices, line managers and employers during one of the busiest periods for apprenticeship starts. Running from 21 September to 2 October 2026, the Get Ahead Series brings together practical resources, expert-led workshops, peer networking opportunities and dedicated support for line managers of apprentices.

Designed primarily for apprentices who have accepted an apprenticeship offer, are preparing to start their apprenticeship, or are in the first few months of their programme, Get Ahead helps participants build confidence, develop key skills and establish strong foundations for success. More established apprentices can also benefit from the workshops, masterclasses and networking opportunities available throughout the series.

For employers, apprenticeship teams and early careers professionals, the programme provides practical tools and guidance to help create positive apprenticeship experiences and support apprentice success from day one.

Why Get Ahead?

The transition into an apprenticeship can be both exciting and challenging. New apprentices often need support to understand workplace expectations, build professional networks, balance work and learning, and develop confidence in their new role. At the same time, line managers play a vital role in shaping the apprentice experience and helping apprentices to thrive.

The Get Ahead Series has been designed to support both audiences, providing practical, accessible and engaging opportunities to develop skills, build connections and access expert guidance.

Who Is Get Ahead For?

Apprentices

Get Ahead is particularly valuable for:

  • New recruits who have accepted an apprenticeship offer and are preparing to start
  • Apprentices in their first weeks or months in role
  • Apprentices looking to build confidence, resilience and professional skills
  • Current and former apprentices who want to continue learning and connecting with peers across the UK

Employers and Line Managers

The programme also supports:

  • Line managers of apprentices
  • Apprenticeship managers and coordinators
  • Early careers teams
  • HR and talent development professionals
  • Organisations committed to improving apprentice engagement, progression and retention
Click below to register.
Get Ahead Series 2026 masterclass graphic for line managers of apprentices, hosted by Aisha Lysejko from 2040 Leaders. Includes practical tools, guidance and insights for supporting apprentices.
Wednesday 30 September 2026 | 11:00am – 12:00pm
Be the Apprentice Manager They Need
As part of the Get Ahead Series 2026, we’re delighted to welcome Aisha Lysejko, Founder of 2040 Leaders, for a free online masterclass designed specifically for line managers of apprentices, apprenticeship teams and early careers professionals. This practical session will explore how managers can better understand the apprentice experience, build confidence, provide effective support and create the conditions for apprentices to thrive from day one. Attendees will gain best-practice guidance, practical tools, real-world insights and opportunities for peer learning, as well as receive the refreshed Get Ahead Guide for Line Managers, available free of charge to all organisations.

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.