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NAW 2026: Stories in Photos

24/02/2026

National Apprenticeship Week 2026 brought together apprentices, employers and partners from across the country for a vibrant mix of online and in‑person events. Throughout the week we explored important topics, shared experiences and celebrated the positive impact apprenticeships continue to have on individuals, organisations and the wider skills landscape.
 
We’ve gathered a selection of photos from our events to showcase some of the conversations, connections and moments that made this year’s NAW so special. From insightful discussions to peer support and networking, these images highlight the energy and commitment within the apprentice community.
 
A huge thank you to everyone who joined us, contributed their ideas, or supported our sessions throughout the week. Your engagement helps us continue building a strong and inclusive community where apprentices can thrive. A special thanks to our sponsor for the BIG Apprentice Survey Report 2026, Impact Futures Group, Tend Training, The Childcare Company, and Captiva Learning.
 
If you attended one of our events or spot yourself in the photos, feel free to share your reflections too – we’d love to hear your stories.  
 
You can browse the photo galleries here:
Apprentice Insights 2026: Live Launch NAW 2026
Celebrating PARS at the House of Lords - NAW 2026
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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.