Table of Contents
National Apprenticeship Week 2025: Skills for Life
National Apprenticeship Week is a time to bring together everyone passionate about apprenticeships and skills, celebrating the value, benefits, and opportunities they provide. This year, the Department for Education has announced the theme ‘Skills for Life’, highlighting how apprenticeships equip individuals with lifelong skills that support career growth and success.
At the Mackman Group, we believe in nurturing talent and providing real-world learning experiences that empower individuals to thrive. Over the years, we have proudly offered apprenticeship opportunities and supported emerging professionals as they build their careers.
To mark National Apprenticeship Week, we caught up with our Business Administration Apprentice, Oscar, to hear about his apprenticeship journey so far. In this interview, Oscar shares his insights on the skills he’s developed, the confidence he’s gained, and how his apprenticeship is preparing him for the future.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what led you to choose an apprenticeship in Business Administration?
I’m Oscar, an 18-year-old Administrative Apprentice at Mackman Group. I chose an apprenticeship in Business Administration because I wanted to gain practical experience while learning, rather than following a purely academic route. I enjoy organisation and problem-solving, so this felt like the perfect fit.
What attracted you to Mackman as a place to complete your apprenticeship?
Mackman stood out because of their supportive and professional environment. I liked the idea of working for a company that values personal development and encourages learning on the job, and I fortunately have been able to do just that.
How do you feel you’ve progressed since starting your apprenticeship?
I’ve grown in confidence and developed key administrative skills. I’ve also become more efficient in managing tasks and communicating with colleagues. The past year has been excellent for my personal development.
What are some key milestones or achievements throughout your apprenticeship that you’re particularly proud of?
One of my proudest moments was successfully managing an internal project from start to finish. I’ve also improved my time management and problem-solving skills significantly, allowing me to work well independently and as part of a team.
What are the most valuable skills you’ve developed so far that you believe will benefit your future career?
Organisation, communication, and attention to detail are the top skills I’ve developed during my apprenticeship so far, and these core skills will be vital for me in any professional setting.
Have you developed any personal skills that will help you beyond the workplace?
Yes, my confidence and adaptability have improved a lot. I’ve also learned to manage my time effectively, which benefits me outside of work too.
How has support from your colleagues helped you develop professionally?
I am lucky to work closely with different disciplines across the Group. Everyone’s guidance has been invaluable – they’ve helped me refine my skills, given me constructive feedback, and encouraged me to take on new challenges.
What would you say to someone who is considering an apprenticeship but isn’t sure if it’s the right path for them?
I’d say definitely go for it! It’s a great way to gain hands-on experience while earning and learning at the same time. You develop real-world skills that set you up for the future. I’m really pleased I chose the apprenticeship route.
If you could describe your apprenticeship experience in three words, what would they be?
Challenging, rewarding, and empowering.
What does ‘Skills for Life’ mean to you in the context of your apprenticeship journey?
For me, ‘Skills for Life’ means gaining practical skills that will be useful throughout my career and personal life, like communication, organisation, and problem-solving. I feel these have hugely developed during my time at Mackman so far, and I know my apprenticeship experience will help me throughout my professional career.
How do you think apprenticeships help young people develop ‘Skills for Life’ in a way that traditional education might not?
I personally think apprenticeships provide real-world experience, allowing you to apply what you learn immediately. You also develop workplace confidence and professionalism, which isn’t always taught in a classroom environment.
Developing Skills for Life Beyond National Apprenticeship Week
At the Mackman Group, we’re proud to support apprentices at the start of their careers, equipping them with ‘Skills for Life’ through real-world experience and expert guidance. We believe apprenticeships are a powerful way to nurture talent, build confidence, and develop future-ready skills.
As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week 2025, we look to the future and encourage businesses to invest in apprenticeships and create opportunities that benefit both individuals and the wider workforce. Together, we can shape skilled futures.