Discover everything you need to know below — from key insights to helpful tips that make a difference.
Supporting Apprentices: The Role of Line Managers
Seems simple, doesn’t it? But there are many reasons why some apprentices leave their programme early or fail to complete it. After working with thousands of apprentices, we know that a strong partnership between the training provider and the line manager can make the difference between success and failure.
Before the programme begins, we do everything we can to set the apprentice up for success. Our robust briefing and induction process supports everyone involved to get the most from the apprenticeship. The goal is to ensure the right people are on the right programmes — being challenged, supported, and bringing value back to the workplace.
During the programme, we hold three-way reviews every 12 weeks to track progress, gather feedback, and make any necessary adjustments.
As a Line Manager, How Can You Support at Each Stage?
Pre-Start – What Can You Do?
- Attend meetings and briefings with us
- Ask questions and share your objectives
- Get to know your apprentice’s trainer
- Read the Apprenticeship Standard and assessment criteria
- Understand the course assessment methods and how you can support evidence gathering
- Learn about funding and learning requirements
On Programme – What Can You Do?
- Continue the above and be available to support your apprentice
- Assign a mentor (not necessarily the line manager)
- Hold regular meetings with your apprentice and their trainer
- Offer empathy, flexibility, patience, and encouragement
- Set clear goals and objectives
- Support End Point Assessment preparation with relevant tasks
- Familiarise yourself with OneFile, the Apprenticeship Standard, EPA and Off-the-Job requirements
- Recognise and reward effort as well as outcomes
- Create additional development opportunities where possible
Tips for Coaching Apprentices
- Be supportive
- Listen actively
- Embrace silence — give them space to think
- Ask open-ended questions
- Offer constructive feedback
- Remain calm and approachable
Use the GROW Model
The GROW model is a simple four-step coaching tool that helps learners define goals and work towards them independently.
- G – Goal: What do they want to achieve?
- R – Reality: What’s their current situation?
- O – Options: What are their choices?
- W – Will: What’s the way forward?
Coaching Questions to Support Learners
- What do you want to achieve from this session?
- What goal do you want to reach?
- What does success look like to you?
- On a scale from 1 to 10, where are you now?
- What would you like to happen next?
- What result are you trying to achieve?
Remember, this isn’t about giving all the answers. It’s about guiding your apprentice to find solutions themselves.
Always feel free to reach out — we’re here to support you as much as the learner.
Workshops & Support
Fareport offers short workshops throughout the year to help employers support their apprentices. Contact us if you’d like to attend one.