National Apprenticeship Week 2026: Growing our own talent

At Efficiency North, we focus on growing our own talent. Apprenticeships aren’t just an early careers initiative for us — they’re a long-term investment in our people and our future, enabling colleagues to gain recognised qualifications while building meaningful, real-world experience within our organisation.

Colleagues like Lorna, who completed apprenticeships in Business Administration and Marketing after joining Efficiency North, gained qualifications, commercial awareness and confidence while earning and contributing in a live working environment. Apprenticeships removed barriers, opened doors and provided a clear pathway for progression.

Career development doesn’t stop at entry level either. After six years working as a Marketing Content Executive, Peter began a Level 6 Marketing Manager Degree Apprenticeship. The programme offers the perfect balance: the opportunity to explore the latest marketing strategy and theory, while continuing to apply that learning directly in the workplace — adding immediate value to the organisation.

Similarly, Nathan, now Assistant Framework Manager, completed a BSc (Hons) in Quantity Surveying through a day-release apprenticeship route. Recently nominated for South Yorkshire’s Top 30 Under 30, he said:

“I’m proud to have been nominated by my employer for South Yorkshire’s Top 30 Under 30. Not bad for someone who bailed on sixth form… better still is that I’m not carrying the same mountain of student debt my mates who followed more traditional routes are.”

Our commitment to developing people has also been recognised externally. We’re proud to have achieved the Investors in People We Invest in People Gold Standard — earned by just 28% of organisations. Gold status reflects a culture where everyone, from CEO to apprentice, takes ownership of bringing our values and performance standards to life.

Apprenticeships at Efficiency North are about more than qualifications. They’re about building confident, capable people — and a stronger organisation for the future.