Annual Conference - The Apprenticeship Outlook: what's changing and what's next

Event is suitable for all employers. As the apprenticeship sector enters a new era, staying ahead means understanding what's coming.

Apprenticeship reforms and the new Growth and Skills Levy demonstrate a renewed focus on skills and productivity.

This year’s conference brings together a fantastic line-up of speakers, including senior leaders, policy experts and real learner voices. They’ll share practical insights into the changes ahead, what they mean for employers and providers, and how organisations can make the most of the emerging opportunities.

From government priorities to employer-driven change, our annual conference is your essential guide. You can gain insights, network and learn strategies to help you navigate the year ahead.

Speakers

Gemma Marsh
Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Skills England

Gemma Marsh is the Deputy Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Skills England. She previously worked at the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, where she most recently served as Director of Education, Work, and Skills. In her current role, the Deputy CEO supports the Chief Executive Officer in leading the day-to-day operation of Skills England.

Gemma will deliver a “State of the Nation” address, sharing national insights into the current skills landscape, the direction of travel for apprenticeships, and what this means for employers, providers, and future talent pipelines.

This is a fantastic opportunity to hear first-hand about the priorities shaping skills policy and how organisations can position themselves to benefit.

Molly Wingrove
Level 6 Chartered Manager Degree Apprentice and Coordinator at The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust

Molly is a fantastic example of how apprenticeships can support real career progression within the NHS.

She began her apprenticeship journey with University of Staffordshire in September 2022, undertaking a Level 5 Operational Manager Apprenticeship. By developing her leadership, organisational and people management skills, she has grown in confidence and responsibility. In 2025, she progressed onto a Level 6 Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship, continuing her development with the same employer.

Molly will share her first-hand insight into balancing work and study, the impact apprenticeships can have on career development, and how investing in staff skills benefits both individuals and organisations.

Lisa Davies
Head of Business Engagement at University of Staffordshire

We’re delighted to welcome Lisa Davies, the newly appointed Head of Business Engagement at University of Staffordshire, as one of our keynote speakers. Lisa will share her insights on the vital role apprenticeships play in developing skilled, future-ready talent, and how the University’s Business Engagement Team can partner with your organisation to drive growth, innovation, and long-term success.

She will explore how collaborating with the University through apprenticeships can help your business nurture the next generation of professionals, upskill existing staff, and stay competitive in a rapidly changing landscape.

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, collaborate, and create meaningful impact through apprenticeship excellence.

Johnny Mathieson
Early Career Professionals Manager UK & Ireland at Siemens

Johnny is a leader with extensive experience in managing and developing apprenticeship, internship, and graduate programmes at Siemens. As an Early Career Professionals Manager, he oversees the design and delivery of comprehensive placement pathways that equip learners with a broad understanding of the business, while ensuring full alignment with apprenticeship and graduate standards. He also manages the upskilling of Siemens UK & Ireland employees through the strategic use of apprenticeship standards, supporting workforce development and future-skills capability.

Johnny is responsible for all aspects of programme management, including operational delivery, quality assurance, stakeholder engagement, and oversight of cost centres to ensure strong financial governance and value for the organisation. Johnny is also actively involved with external organisations, contributing to industry standards, education policy initiatives, and the wider early-careers ecosystem.

Meg Bowyer
Former Captain of Stoke City FC

Meg is a respected leader in women’s football, best known for her time as captain of Stoke City FC Women. A commanding presence on and off the pitch, she led by example with professionalism, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to team culture. Her captaincy helped shape standards, inspire teammates, and elevate performance, leaving a lasting legacy at the club.

Agenda

• Arrival and Networking
• Welcome address: Jenny Amphlett (University of Staffordshire)
• Opening keynote: Apprenticeships: Why Skills are Key?, Lisa Davies (University of Staffordshire)
• Keynote: State of the Nation, Gemma Marsh (Skills England)
• Inspirational Speaker: Meg Bowyer (Former Captain of Stoke City FC)
• Panel Session and Q&A: Gemma Marsh, Molly Wingrove, Lisa Davies and Johnny Mathieson
• Networking

This is an in-person event.

Register now