National Apprenticeship Week 2026: Backing The Next Generation
9th Feb 2026
National Apprenticeship Week is here (9th-15th February 2026) and it’s set to be a week-long celebration shining a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships make to individuals, businesses and the wider economy. Check out the National Apprenticeship Week website for all the details on this important initiative and the businesses involved.
Backing the next generation
Here at Draper, we believe it’s never been more important to back apprentices and the next generation going into the trades. So many trade sectors are facing skills shortages that threaten to impact future industry. In the automotive sector, The IMI has all the latest research on the shortfall of qualified technicians, particularly EV technicians. Its EV TechSafe Technician Forecast has found that the number of qualified technicians and pace of training in the UK lags behind future demand. The IMI anticipates a shortfall of more than 44,000 technicians by 2035, with up to 193,000 qualified individuals needed.
Elsewhere in the construction sector there are reports of critical shortages of skilled trades such as bricklaying, plumbing and roofing. According to one report, by 2035, over one-third of construction workers will retire, worsening the crisis. This shortfall puts the UK government’s new homes target at serious risk.
Supporting the education sector
In recent years, we have been working with several colleges, training facilities and industry bodies, developing supportive relationships and learning more about the education sector.
It’s been an honour to get to know this fascinating sector and meet so many expert lecturers, as well as interact with the students. We firmly believe that quality technical training and teaching should be accompanied by quality tools to deliver the best possible learning experience for all. That’s why we’re working to build long-lasting partnerships.
Tools for success
We research everything there is to know about tool design, technology and application to ensure that our tools meet the continually advancing needs of our customers. We strive to ensure that they stand up to the rigours of trade use. And we’re proud to assist in the education and training of successive generations of tradespeople across every vocation.
But our commitment doesn’t end there, Draper Tools regularly welcomes students to its head office to learn more about the industry and what goes into ensuring tools are up to the job.
Want to know more? Send us a DM on social media or get in touch via our contact form.
