Redefining Apprenticeships: Building Character, Not Just Skills

In a workplace where change accelerates and competition for talent intensifies, the question isn’t just whether someone has the right skills, it’s whether they have the confidence, character and adaptability to succeed. At Hatch, we believe apprenticeships should deliver more than functional ability. They must build people who can make a difference.

Why we must rethink apprenticeships

Today’s UK labour market faces two inter-linked issues: a growing skills gap and a training system that too often focuses merely on tasks rather than potential. According to the Institute for Apprenticeships & Technical Education (I-ATE) and other government sources, around 210,000 vacancies in England in 2024 were classed as skill-shortage roles, representing approximately 27 % of all vacancies. House of Commons Library+2GOV.UK+2

Meanwhile, training investment and employer training participation are under real pressure: just 60 % of employers reported training any staff in the last 12 months (up from 66 % in 2017), according to the 2022 Employer Skills Survey. GOV.UK

The upshot? Organisations often hire people with the right certificate, but they miss the mindset, resilience and personal attributes needed to perform, adapt and thrive. Apprenticeships that stop at skills risk failing both learner and employer alike.

Our answer: Building Character, Not Just Skills

That’s why at Hatch we’ve designed our Level 3 Business Administrator Apprenticeship to go further. We focus on three pillars:

• Confidence: so the apprentice can step up, speak up, and act from day one.
• Capability: practical, transferable skills matched to workplace demands.
• Character: the personal attributes (initiative, resilience, collaboration) that drive long-term success.

As we always say: “We don’t just train skills. We build people.”

What this means for learners and employers

For learners, our approach means you don’t just tick a box. You become the kind of person your team wants and the business values. You’re not only competent, but you’re also confident, agile and ready.

For employers, it means a new kind of talent pipeline: apprentices who are ready to contribute, adapt and grow. They’re not only trained, but they’re also trusted. They make an impact sooner, add value beyond a task, and help sustain your team’s future.

A forward-looking brand in a changing world

At Hatch, we believe the future of work isn’t just about what people can do, it’s about who they become. With the rapid pace of technological change, evolving roles and shifting business priorities, the people who succeed will be those who bring character as well as competence.

Our launch marks a step beyond traditional apprenticeship frameworks. We’re here to help learners grow into capable professionals and to enable employers to build stronger teams for tomorrow.

“The future of work isn’t just about what people can do, it’s about who they become.”
— Jack Edwards, Operations Director, Hatch

 

Why now matters

• With 62 % of organisations reporting skills shortages as of 2024, the pressure is no longer just technical, it’s human. St Martins group
• Apprenticeship starts have declined across sectors, despite increased demand for higher-level skills and workplace readiness. CIPD+1
• Businesses that invest in the full spectrum of development — skills, mindset and character, will be better placed for productivity, retention and growth.

Conclusion

As Hatch launches, our commitment is clear: we build people. Not just professionals, people who can think, lead, adapt and prosper. In doing so, we aim to redefine what an apprenticeship can be: a launchpad not just for jobs, but for careers and confident futures.

If you’re a learner who wants more than just a qualification, or an employer who wants more than just a trainee, we invite you to join us.

Contact us Today