Care to apprenticeship – Making apprenticeships work for care-experienced people
Apprenticeships offer a powerful pathway into stable, fulfilling careers, yet for care-experienced young people, this route is often blocked by systemic hurdles. Drive Forward Foundation’s latest research reveals a stark disparity: while 40% of care leavers aged 19–21 are currently NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training), only 2% are engaged in apprenticeships.
This report, co-designed with care-experienced individuals, explores why this gap persists despite high levels of interest from young people. By combining a survey of 136 individuals with in-depth interviews across the sector, we have identified the specific structural, financial, and emotional barriers that prevent care leavers from accessing and sustaining these vital opportunities.
Download the full report below.
Care to Apprenticeship
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Download the Full Report
Why Apprenticeships Matter
Apprenticeships are more than just a way to earn while you learn – they’re a pathway to real-world skills, confidence, and future career opportunities. They give young people a chance to:
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Learn on the job: Gain practical experience in a supportive environment.
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Earn while you learn: Receive a salary as you develop skills.
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Build a career foundation: Work towards nationally recognised qualifications that are valued by employers
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Develop transferable skills: Communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and more.
At Drive Forward Foundation, we believe apprenticeships can transform lives by connecting learning with opportunity.
Did you know that care-experienced apprentices under 25 have access to a £3000 apprenticeship? Speak to your Training Provider for information on how to claim it.
For Employers – Partner with Us
They give young people a head start while helping businesses grow their talent pipeline.
Working with Drive Forward Foundation, employers can:
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Shape the next generation of professionals by offering meaningful training and career pathways to talented young people, including those from disadvantaged and underrepresented backgrounds.
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Highlight your opportunities to motivated young people across communities, many of whom face barriers to accessing professional networks and employment.
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Collaborate with us to support apprenticeship initiatives and outreach that widen participation, raise aspirations, and promote social mobility.
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Strengthen your workforce while creating real social impact, building a diverse pipeline of skilled, driven future talent.
If your organisation wants to explore apprenticeships or discuss partnership opportunities, we’d love to hear from you.
Support our mission Donate today. Change a life tomorrow.
It’s not about a charity, it’s about support.
Your backing helps us provide our care leavers with the vital training, guidance and support they need to build some momentum in their careers.
£5 – Gives our mentees travel support so they never miss vital sessions
£25 – Provides 1-2-1 career guidance and emergency help
£100 – Helps sustain one young person’s entire programme.
Get involved Partner with us – Change lives today
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