Highlighting flexible online apprenticeships

Now in its 19th year, NAW brings together businesses, apprentices, and training providers to highlight how apprenticeship programmes open doors to rewarding careers, support workforce development, and help tackle priority skills gaps. This year’s theme champions the skills, success and opportunities apprenticeships create for individuals, organisations, and the wider economy.

Solent’s online apprenticeship programmes have been developed to offer maximum flexibility for both employers and learners. Delivered remotely and designed around real‑world business priorities, these courses provide an accessible route into professional development without the need for traditional classroom attendance.

Unlike fixed September start dates, Solent’s online apprenticeships offer monthly roll‑on, roll‑off enrolment, enabling organisations to onboard staff at the point of need and learners to begin their development journey at a time that suits them.

Programmes include structured online teaching, digital learning materials, virtual workshops, and tailored academic and pastoral support, making them ideal for professionals balancing full‑time work with continued study.

Andy Russell, Contracts and Quality Coordinator in Solent University’s Estates & Facilities team, is currently undertaking the Operations Manager Apprenticeship through the University’s online provision.

He says learning online has been key to making professional development achievable alongside his role:

“Online learning suits me because it gives me the flexibility to study around my existing work and personal commitments. I can manage my time more effectively and learn at a pace that works for me. I’m comfortable using technology, so engaging with online platforms, submitting assignments digitally and communicating through online channels all fit well with the way I prefer to learn.”

Choosing an online apprenticeship has opened new opportunities for Andy’s development:

“It allows me to continue progressing in my career without needing to attend classes in person. The flexibility means I can fit my studies around full‑time work, which wouldn’t be possible with a traditional classroom‑based course.

“Access to online training programmes, including LinkedIn Learning, has been invaluable. It’s helped me develop skills throughout the course in operational management and gain qualifications in a convenient and efficient way.”

Andy’s manager, Leslie McIvor, Contracts and Projects Manager for Solent University, has seen the benefits first-hand:

“Online apprenticeships give members of my team the flexibility to learn in a way that fits around work demands and individual working patterns. I’m genuinely delighted to see Andy growing in confidence, developing valuable skills and achieving qualifications that support his role while preparing him for future opportunities.”

Solent’s online apprenticeships continue to support employers in building future‑ready workforces and providing staff with practical, career‑advancing skills that can be applied immediately in the workplace.

Jo McBrearty, Head of Work Based Learning at Solent University says, “We are committed to lifelong learning and to ensuring that professional development is accessible to everyone, whatever their stage in life or career. Our online apprenticeships are a key part of this commitment. By offering flexible, remote‑led programmes with monthly start dates, we enable learners to upskill at a pace and time that works for them while continuing to contribute fully in the workplace.”

More information about Solent’s full range of online Higher and Degree Apprenticeships, including flexible start dates and programme details, can be found on our website.