How Employers Can Support Apprentices During National Apprenticeship Week

National Apprenticeship Week is an annual celebration of apprentices and trainees, their achievements, and the vital role they play in building Australia’s future workforce.

For employers, it’s the perfect time to shine a spotlight on your apprentices, showcase your commitment to skills development, and inspire others to invest in training the next generation.

Here are some practical and meaningful ways employers across Australia can support their apprentices and trainees during National Apprenticeship Week.

1. Celebrate Apprentice Achievements Publicly by ‘Giving a Shout’

A simple but powerful way to show recognition is to highlight your apprentices’ successes.

To Give a Shout you could:

• Post about their milestones on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram, tagging them where appropriate

• Share a short profile or interview on your company website

• Highlight achievements such as completing a TAFE module, earning a safety award, or finishing a major project

Not only does this boost your apprentice’s confidence, but it also strengthens your company’s reputation as an employer who invests in its people.

2. Host a Workplace Morning Tea or BBQ

Bring your team together for a small celebration during National Apprenticeship Week. A morning tea, BBQ, or casual lunch gives you the chance to acknowledge apprentices in front of their peers.

Consider presenting a small certificate of recognition or a thank-you card signed by supervisors. These gestures go a long way towards building engagement and pride.

3. Share Stories Through Your Networks

Help spread the word about apprenticeships by featuring your apprentice stories in newsletters, client updates, or industry associations. This not only recognises your team members but also positions your business as a leader in skills development.

Ways to showcase success stories:

• Feature apprentices who have progressed to leadership roles within your company

• Highlight specific projects or innovations led by current or former apprentices

• Document the journey from apprentice to qualified tradesperson or professional

Use the official hashtags #NAWA and #NationalApprenticeshipWeekAustralia on social media.

4. Provide Professional Development Opportunities

Supporting apprentices is about more than celebration, it’s also about growth. During the week, consider offering:

• A half-day training or skills workshop

• A site visit to another part of the business

• A mentoring session with a senior tradesperson or manager

This investment shows apprentices you are committed to their long-term success.

5. Display Your Support Visibly

Small touches can make a big impact. Add a National Apprenticeship Week banner to your company website, display posters in the workplace, or include the NAWA logo in your email signature. These visual cues reinforce your support and help raise awareness across your network.

Download the National Apprenticeship Week supporter media, including logos and posters.

6. Create Special Recognition Programs

Use National Apprenticeship Week to formally recognise the contributions of your apprentices and the mentors who support them. These programs not only celebrate achievements but also motivate continued excellence.

Recognition program ideas:

• Present awards for outstanding apprentice performance

• Acknowledge mentors and supervisors who excel at apprentice development

• Offer professional development opportunities as recognition rewards

6. Encourage Peer Recognition

Invite team members and supervisors to write short messages of appreciation to apprentices and trainees. You could create a recognition wall in the lunchroom or feature quotes on your intranet or social media.

Hearing encouragement from peers as well as leaders can be incredibly motivating.

Start Planning Early

Successful National Apprenticeship Week participation requires advance planning. Begin organising your activities several months ahead to ensure maximum impact and smooth execution.

If you’re new to National Apprenticeship Week participation, start small but start now. Even simple activities like sharing apprentice stories on social media or hosting a lunch-and-learn session can make a meaningful contribution to the national conversation about apprenticeships.

Planning timeline suggestions:

• 3-4 months before: Set objectives and allocate budget

• 2-3 months before: Develop activities and begin promotional planning

• 1 month before: Finalise logistics and begin marketing

• During the week: Execute activities and engage actively on social media

• After the week: Follow up on leads and evaluate success

National Apprenticeship Week Australia is held in the second week of February each year (9-15 February 2026).

Why Employer Support Matters

When employers take the time to celebrate and support apprentices, it strengthens retention, builds morale, and promotes your organisation as a workplace of choice. National Apprenticeship Week is a reminder that Australian Apprenticeships are not just about training – they are about people, pride, and building a skilled workforce for the future.

Ready to make your mark? Visit the National Apprenticeship Week Get involved page for resources, logos, and other inspiration to help you celebrate.