As the Government’s new Skills Reform agenda reshapes post-16 education, ATC serves as the national platform for collaboration, innovation, and action – empowering the sector to build a skilled, inclusive, and adaptable workforce for the future.
The Apprenticeships and Training Conference (ATC) is the UK’s leading event dedicated to advancing workforce development, training provision, and apprenticeships. Founded in 2015 and formerly known as the Annual Apprenticeship Conference, ATC brings together education providers, employers, policymakers, and sector leaders for two days of thought leadership, practical insight, and meaningful collaboration.
Now in its 11th year, ATC 2026 will take place on 2–3 March at the ACC Liverpool, offering a dynamic space for learning, sharing, and connection. As the Government’s new Skills Reform agenda reshapes the post-16 landscape, ATC provides a unique platform for those shaping and delivering the future of skills – from apprenticeships and workforce training to lifelong learning and digital transformation.
At its core, the Apprenticeships and Training Conference exists to champion high-quality skills development across the UK. Our purpose is to bring together the organisations, individuals, and institutions shaping the future of workplace training and apprenticeships. Creating a space to share best practice, challenge thinking, and influence the direction of policy and provision.
We believe in the power of collaboration to drive meaningful change. ATC is designed to support everyone involved in the training and apprenticeship ecosystem, from FE colleges and training providers to employers and government bodies, by offering a forum for connection, reflection, and action.
Whether it’s exploring the latest reforms, showcasing innovation, or elevating the voices of those delivering on the ground, ATC supports the sector in its mission to build a skilled, adaptable, and inclusive workforce for the future.
ATC brings together a diverse and dynamic audience from across the skills, training, and employment landscape. The conference is designed for those responsible for delivering, commissioning, or shaping apprenticeships and workforce development programmes.
Our attendees include:
Education Providers: Representatives from FE colleges, schools, universities, and training organisations who are directly involved in delivering apprenticeships and training programmes.
Employers: Business leaders, HR professionals, and workforce development managers seeking to enhance their organisations’ skills and training initiatives.
Assessment Organisations: Experts involved in the assessment, accreditation, and quality assurance of apprenticeships and training programmes.
Policy Makers and Regulators: Government officials, policy advisors, and regulatory bodies focused on shaping and implementing policies related to apprenticeships and workforce development.
Industry Experts and Consultants: Professionals who provide strategic advice, research, and insights into trends and best practices in training and apprenticeships.
With over 1,800 participants in 2025, ATC is a powerful meeting point for those leading skills development in the UK. It’s where policy meets practice, offering unrivalled opportunities to learn, connect, and influence.
Hear what past attendees have to say about the ATC experience – from the quality of content to the connections made, discover why it’s a must-attend event.
“I cannot underestimate the value of this event. It allows all stakeholders to collaborate and share information and practices. Over both days, I really enjoyed meeting passionate, like-minded professionals and realised that, in the main, our issues are very similar.”
A fantastic, varied conference with some stand out key notes speakers such as Rory Sutherland and T J Power. Fantastic opportunity to bring like minded people together, with a common interest in improving opportunities for Apprentices across the country. Danielle Houghton- Vice Principal, Trafford and Stockport Colleg
The ATC provides an amazing opportunity for those within the Apprenticeship and Training sector to develop their knowledge and understanding whilst networking with multiple sector professionals in the fantastic City of Liverpool . Jon Hornagold - Amey
“A great event that keeps you up to date with changes and future changes and a great opportunity to network, would definitely recommend this conference to colleagues.”
"Really insightful conference with experienced and thought-provoking keynote speakers and panelists."
"The Apprenticeship and Training Conference 2025 was an exceptional experience. It provided a wealth of insights into the evolving landscape of apprenticeships and skills development. The sessions were engaging, the speakers were inspiring, and the networking opportunities were invaluable. I left feeling empowered with fresh ideas and strategies to implement in my own professional journey. A truly impactful event for anyone invested in fostering growth and learning!"
"I really enjoyed attending the ATC 2025 conference and can't wait to go again next year. I got to meet so many people and learn from sector experts which I know will massively help our organisation with our apprenticeships and training provision."
"The ATC conference remains the stand-out event in the apprenticeships and skills landscape, the attention to detail in its organisation and delivery is unrivalled, it really is the best place from which to view the direction that the sector is moving in."
"The Apprenticeship Training Conference (ATC) was an outstanding event, bringing together sector leaders, educators, and employers to share invaluable insights. The sessions were highly engaging, with expert speakers addressing key challenges and opportunities in apprenticeship delivery. The networking opportunities were excellent, fostering meaningful discussions and collaborations. A must-attend event for anyone involved in apprenticeships!"
"This is the conference you should drop everything to attend. Political representatives, insightful speakers, workshops of practical benefit, plus plenty of opportunities to network with colleagues across the sector, as well as make new connections."
"As an ex-apprentice working to improve the uptake of students down the apprenticeship route the ATC was a fantastic event to get up to date with everything going on in the sector and meet other likeminded individuals also working to improve the sector."
ATC 2026 promises to be our most ambitious and impactful event yet, with a programme designed to inform, inspire, and ignite action across the apprenticeship and training sector.
Key features include:
Insightful keynote plenary sessions from sector leaders, thought leaders and policymakers
Over 50 expert-led workshops exploring practical solutions and innovations
The Employer Summit. A focused space for employer engagement and insight
A vibrant exhibition showcasing organisations driving change across skills and training
The Gala Dinner and Apprenticeship & Training Awards, celebrating sector excellence
New for 2026, we’re enhancing networking spaces, expanding our content for employers, and placing greater emphasis on the integration of technology and innovation in workforce development.
Core themes for 2026 include AI and the future of work, skills system reform, workforce resilience, equity and inclusion, sustainability, and strengthening employer-provider partnerships. Expect powerful discussions, actionable takeaways, and a renewed sense of purpose as we work together to deliver the UK’s vision for a world-class, employer-led skills system.
The Apprenticeships and Training Conference (ATC) offers a comprehensive programme designed to address the most urgent challenges and emerging opportunities across apprenticeships, technical education, and workforce training.
In line with the Government’s Skills Reform agenda, ATC 2026 will explore how an employer-led, flexible, and future-focused system can deliver the skills needed for growth, innovation, and inclusion. Our 10 content strands are designed to equip attendees with the knowledge, tools, and partnerships required to thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape.
System Reform & Policy
Exploring reforms, policies, and regulatory shifts shaping the future of apprenticeships, technical education, and workforce development systems.
Skills Intelligence & Workforce Planning
Using data and foresight to align training with evolving labour market needs, business strategy, and future talent pipelines.
AI, Data & Learning Tech
Harnessing AI, analytics, and digital tools to transform learning design, delivery, personalisation, and organisational efficiency.
Inclusive, Healthy & Ethical Workplaces
Building equitable, supportive environments through inclusive training, mental wellbeing strategies, and ethical workplace practices.
Quality, Assessment & Assurance
Driving high standards across training delivery and assessment through robust quality assurance, evaluation, and continuous improvement.
Employer Partnerships & Pathways
Strengthening collaborations between providers and employers to build meaningful apprenticeship routes and workforce progression pathways.
Funding, Finance & Accountability
Navigating funding systems, maximising levy use, and ensuring transparency, value, and impact in training investment.
Green & Infrastructure Skills
Preparing the workforce for a net-zero future by developing green, digital, and infrastructure skills to meet sectoral and national targets.
Leadership Development
Equipping current and future leaders with the skills, behaviours, and mindsets needed to lead thriving teams and transform organisations.
Have questions about registering for ATC 2026? Our team is here to help. Whether you’re booking for yourself or a group, or need support with ticket options, just get in touch, and we’ll be happy to assist and ensure your registration process is smooth and straightforward.
© Educationscape Ltd. 2025
The Apprenticeships and Training Conference is owned and operated by EducationScape Ltd. Registered in England and Wales. No. 7423341. VAT Number: 103586724 Registered address: Old Rectory, South Kilvington, Thirsk, North Yorkshire YO7 2NL
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