Apprenticeship Do’s and Don’ts for Employers

To help you get the most from the Apprenticeship programme and develop confident, capable individuals, here are the key behaviours you should encourage your apprentices to adopt, as well as the habits to help them avoid. 

Apprentices absorb large amounts of new information. Promote an environment where they feel confident asking questions. This helps them build the knowledge and skills they’ll need to perform effectively and progress within their role. 

Apprentices will regularly receive feedback from trainers and yourself as their employer. Share your feedback in a way that encourages growth rather than feeling like criticism. Reinforce that developing new skills takes time and that learning from mistakes is part of the journey. 

Apprentices must balance their workload with completing required Knowledge, Skills & Behaviours (KSBs) and meeting deadlines. Encourage them to track their progress, manage their tasks proactively and take responsibility for staying on schedule. 

Let apprentices know they can raise concerns early. Whether they are struggling with specific parts of their role, need additional support or require clarification on expectations. Regular check-ins help ensure they stay aligned and confident throughout their training. 

While the Apprenticeship standard provides a roadmap, apprentices benefit from setting their own additional goals. Support them in identifying optional training, projects or stretch opportunities that complement their growth. 

Mistakes are a natural part of learning. Help apprentices understand that errors can be constructive when handled correctly, while reinforcing the importance of meeting standards as their competence grows. 

Encourage apprentices to take initiative and attempt tasks independently before seeking help where applicable. This builds confidence and capability, while still ensuring they know when to reach out for guidance. 

Ensure your apprentice understands the importance of implementing feedback. Discuss how they can translate comments from trainers or managers into practical improvements. 

Even experienced apprentices and employees are still developing. Remind them that expertise builds over time and that remaining open-minded helps them learn from those around them. 

While independence is valuable, collaboration is equally essential. Support relationship-building within the team. Your employee can gain new perspectives, peer support, and opportunities to broaden their understanding of key KSBs. 

If you’re looking to build a skilled, future-ready team, apprenticeships are one of the most effective ways to develop talent from within. 

Fareport offers high-quality apprenticeship training across: 

• Leadership & Management
• People & Culture
• Marketing
• Health & Social Care
• Business & Professional Services
• Commercial & Supply Chain 

Whether you want to upskill existing staff or bring fresh potential into your business, our specialists can help you choose the right programme. 

Submit an enquiry form or call 01329 825 805 to speak with our experts about developing a dynamic, high-performing workforce.