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Association of Apprentices

Better together
With tend, you’re choosing a market-leading training provider backed by the brilliant Association of Apprentices.  It’s a powerful combination.
It means you get additional reassurance that you’re in very safe hands, while your learners get a raft of benefits to make their journey as easy and rewarding as possible. In short, everyone wins.
Register today
What is the Association of Apprentices?
The AoA is a not-for-profit social enterprise connecting and supporting apprentices from all over the UK.  Thanks to our partnership with them, your learners get free AoA membership, giving them access to a thriving online community and three distinct advantages:
Get started
Access the AoA app for free!

Unique communities
AoA connects learners with other apprentices in their subject or location, providing exclusive access to information, advice and career-related networks.

Unmissable events
From motivational speakers to masterclasses on critical thinking – your apprentices will love the chance to grow their skills and confidence even further.

Extra development
Giving learners all the essential ‘soft skills’ that make all the difference to their applications for work, as well as to their everyday performance in any chosen role.

AoA Connect
Enter your bespoke social networking platform. Access is available via your desktop or (better yet) download the app to your Apple or Android device and dive into your community. 
Meet like-minded and diverse groups of apprentices from across the UK, sign up for events, vote in polls, and connect with your peers.
AoA Learn
Your Learning & Development journey has levelled up! All the skills you require to stay ahead of the game are available at your fingertips. Enhance your understanding to achieve your best and get the most out of your apprenticeship!
Essential guides
tend has put together some helpful, go-to guides for apprentices and their line managers.

Whether you’re newly recruited apprentice eager to excel, or a line manager responsible for guiding and nurturing an apprentice, these free guides are here to support you right from day one. 
From helping you understand the expectations of your role to honing your communications skills, they’ll quickly equip you with the tools you need to thrive. Written clearly by experts who really understand the dynamics of apprenticeships, they’re packed with tips, strategies and real-world examples – perfect for making your journey as smooth, enjoyable and successful as possible.  

Good luck from all of us here at tend!

Download both the Apprentices Guide or the Line Managers Guide here:

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Association of Apprentices?

The Association is the place where apprentices from across the UK can unite, network, and develop. It is a community supporting each other to be their best. If you are an apprentice or recently completed an apprenticeship, your membership provides you with access to our exclusive features:

A bespoke social network that lets you connect with like-minded people in your sector or region – gain insight, ask for advice, attend virtual meetups and so much more.

An online learning and development tool to enhance your skills and knowledge so that you can unlock your full potential throughout your apprenticeship and beyond.

Exclusive members-only events, both virtual and in person. These are curated specifically for apprentices, tapping into topics supporting your unique position on the career ladder. Occasionally, we will hold events that are open to the public, so you can invite your colleagues, friends, and family.

 Can I give you some feedback?

Absolutely! The AoA is led by apprentices, so your feedback is key. If you’re a member, send us an email to info@tendtraining.co.uk

Who can join?

If you are a current apprentice or if you have recently completed one of our apprenticeships and you live in the UK, the AoA was made for you! Join a growing community today.

Why should I become a member?

Members gain access to our exclusive events as well as our two key features: AoA Connect and AoA Learn. By accessing these tools your pool of resources will unfold, giving you the opportunity to develop your skills in all areas. The Association provides the foundations, but you create the community. Create a professional network, meet other amazing apprentices, and develop your skills so that you can fulfil your maximum potential.

How do I become a member?

It’s simple! Complete our short registration form and that’s it. How do our apprentices join?

Get started

How much is the membership?

It’s FREE! As long as you are currently completing an apprenticeship or have completed an apprenticeship, there is no cost involved to join.

I’ve finished my apprenticeship – can I join?

If you recently completed an apprenticeship, then of course! As Peter Drucker once said: “Knowledge has to be improved, challenged, and increased constantly, or it vanishes.”  Using AoA’s resources you are in the perfect position to develop further at your own pace and share what you’ve learned (good and bad!) with our current apprentices. Your experience is the most valuable resource. Although the Association is primarily for apprentices who are currently on programme we’d love to have you in our community.

What is AoA Connect?

AoA Connect is the Association’s social networking feature that lets our members meet, ask questions, complete polls, attend events and much more! You can also join groups that particularly interest you. AoA Connect is available both from your desktop or as a mobile app.

Can anyone access AoA Connect?

No. AoA Connect is only for members of the Association (who have to be UK-based current or recently completed apprentices) who are aged 18+

How do I get access to AoA Connect?

Once you’ve registered as a member of the Association, you can access AoA Connect from the members’ area of their website.

What is AoA Learn?

AoA Learn is the Association’s online learning feature that gives you access to a huge catalogue of e-learning, assessments and advice to help you develop your skills and knowledge. With everything from self-awareness, resilience and relationships to interview practice and things not to do at work, AoA Learn is your place to learn and grow.

Can anyone access AoA Learn?

AoA Learn is accessible to members of the Association, either individual apprentices or to one representative from a corporate member (i.e. an employer or training provider) who has registered their apprentices as members.

How do I get access to AoA Learn?

Once you’ve registered as a member of the Association, you can access AoA Learn from the members’ area of their website.

Where can I find your events calendar?

Events are listed in on the Events page of AoA Connect and on the homepage of their website.

What is the Apprentice Council?

The Council is made up of current and past apprentices, and they guide our work and ensure that everything the Association offers meets the needs of its members.

Other

 If you have any other queries that aren’t covered above, please contact AoA and they’ll come back to you as soon as they can! If you’d like to contact us, you can do that via email on info@tendtraining.co.uk, or by simply filling in the form below.

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