Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week 2026

This week we have been celebrating National Apprenticeship Week (9 to 15 February), the UK’s annual celebration of apprenticeships and skills. 

National Apprenticeship Week highlights the important impact that apprenticeships make to individuals, businesses and the wider economy. 

The theme for National Apprenticeship Week 2026 is ‘Skills for Life’, recognising how apprenticeships can help individuals build a rewarding career, while giving employers the opportunity to fill skills gaps and develop a future-ready workforce.

National Apprenticeship Week events 

We organised a range of events over the course of the week to celebrate the contributions of apprenticeships in Brighton & Hove. These included:

  • ‘tea and talk’ sessions with corporate directors for council apprentices and their managers
  • visits for council apprentices to the Old Police Cells and tea in the Mayor's Parlour
  • an apprenticeships drop-in information session at the Youth Employment Hub
  • launch of the council’s internal apprenticeship awards

We have also been flying the flag for apprenticeships at Hove Town Hall throughout the week. 

Celebrating apprenticeships

Councillor Emma Daniel, Cabinet member for Children, Families and Youth Services, said: “Each year National Apprenticeship Week is an important time for us to recognise and celebrate all that apprenticeships offer. 

“Apprenticeships give individuals the opportunity to learn new skills and kick-start their careers while helping employers support and retain staff. They also help to boost our local economy here in Brighton & Hove, ensuring the city has the skills needed to thrive. 

“As we approach the end of National Apprenticeship Week, we’re encouraging everyone to consider how an apprenticeship could support you, someone you know, or your employer.”

Local apprentice opportunities

An apprenticeship could be a good choice if you enjoy a practical, hands-on style of learning. Find out if an apprenticeship is right for you on the Amazing Apprenticeships website.

Explore local opportunities by viewing apprenticeship vacancies at the council or apprenticeship vacancies in Brighton & Hove.

Hire an apprentice

Apprentices combine paid work with study to gain skills and knowledge in a specific job. You can employ apprentices at different levels, from school leavers to people who want to further their careers or retrain.

Find out more about the benefits of hiring an apprentice and how employing an apprentice works.