National Apprenticeship Week 2025: A south east London perspective

11 Feb 2025
Apprenticeship
workforce

National Apprenticeship Week 2025 (10 – 16 February), is an opportunity to celebrate the value, benefits, and opportunities that apprenticeships bring to individuals, our healthcare organisations, and communities. Across south east London Integrated Care System (ICS), we are committed to ensuring apprenticeships play a central role in building a strong, skilled, and diverse workforce for the future of health & care services.

The Benefits of Apprenticeships for Employers
For employers across south east London, apprenticeships provide a powerful tool for workforce development. By investing in apprentices, organisations can cultivate a pipeline of skilled professionals tailored to meet the evolving needs of the health & care sector. Apprenticeships help address workforce shortages, improve staff retention, and bring fresh perspectives into the workplace. Moreover, they contribute to a culture of continuous learning and professional growth, ensuring that health & care services remain resilient and adaptable to future challenges.

Apprenticeships: A Pathway to Career Success
For individuals, apprenticeships offer a unique opportunity to earn while they learn, gaining hands-on experience while working towards nationally recognised qualifications. From healthcare support workers to digital and managerial roles, our apprenticeship programmes are equipping individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in their careers. Apprenticeships enable career progression, providing structured pathways for individuals to develop new skills and advance within the health & care sector.

Our Commitment to Workforce Development
The SEL ICS works closely with apprenticeship leads from each of our five NHS Trusts, as well as partners in social care and primary care, to drive collaboration, share best practices, and ensure that apprenticeships remain a key priority. Together, we are building a system that not only supports new apprentices but also enables our existing staff to upskill through apprenticeship pathways.

Looking Ahead: Expanding Opportunities
Our vision for apprenticeships in south east London is to continue expanding access and creating new pathways for individuals to develop fulfilling careers within health & care. We are working to strengthen partnerships with educational institutions, increase awareness of apprenticeship opportunities, and ensure that all staff, regardless of career stage, have access to learning and development.

As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, we encourage everyone – employers, managers, prospective apprentices, and current staff, to explore how apprenticeships can be a game-changer for both individuals and the wider health and care system. Together, let’s unlock potential and build a thriving workforce for South East London.

Find out more
Find out more from the SE London Jobs Hub about NHS apprenticeships and opportunities in SE London.