Apprentice shutterstock_1206996064.jpg

UKATA Celebrates National Apprenticeship Week 2025

Its NAW Blue and Black.jpg

Taking place 10 - 16 February, this week-long celebration unites businesses and apprentices across the country to shine a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships make to individuals, businesses and the wider economy.

This year’s theme, ‘Skills for Life,’ emphasises how apprenticeships help individuals build the skills and knowledge needed for a successful career, while enabling businesses to cultivate a skilled workforce ready to meet future challenges.

Over the years, UKATA has celebrated numerous success stories, with many apprentices securing long-term roles within the association after completing their apprenticeship programs.

SB headshot smaller.png

Now a part of the senior management team, Operations Manager Sasha Brailsford shares her experience of being an apprentice and mentor within UKATA.

“I first started at UKATA in 2015 as an apprentice in marketing. After completing my Level 2 Business Administration NVQ, I was offered an opportunity to transfer to the membership department. I gained experience within the role and felt that I had found my forte. Following hard work and personal growth, I progressed to a membership team leader role and then onto membership manager, which brought with it the responsibility to develop my own team of apprentices. Last year I was promoted to Operations Manager and proudly form part of the senior management team.

Having begun my career as an apprentice, I am a firm believer in the value of supporting apprenticeships in the workplace. My own apprenticeship played a key role in my career progression, providing me with the support and skills necessary to reach the position I hold today. Watching an apprentice grow, both professionally and personally, is incredibly rewarding. Each of my apprentices brings a diverse set of skills and experiences, helping to create a strong and effective team”.

Throughout the week, UKATA will be promoting apprenticeships, showcasing their benefits and success stories and highlighting how they are an excellent option to consider for young people wishing to start a career, employees looking to progress in their current role or those retraining for a new career.

UKATA, a leading association, is dedicated to enhancing the quality and standards of asbestos training with the aim to shield workers and the public from the hazards of asbestos exposure.

The association collaborates closely with its members to guarantee that they have access to the latest information, training resources, and industry updates. They provide a suite of support services to assist them in accomplishing their training objectives. Their membership encompasses a diverse array of organisations involved in asbestos training, including training providers, asbestos removal contractors, consultants, and equipment suppliers.

UKATA is fervent about promoting safe and responsible working practices, committed to working with members and partners to realise a shared vision of protecting workers and the public from the hazards linked with asbestos exposure.

Find out more about UKATA

Published on Wednesday 5th February 2025