National Apprenticeship Week 2026: Building Skills for Life at Hazelton Mountford
Today marks the start of National Apprenticeship Week 2026.
Hazelton Mountford is proud to reflect on more than 10 years of supporting apprenticeships in the insurance industry.
This year’s theme, “Skills for Life,” highlights the long-term value apprenticeships bring, not only to individuals starting their careers but also to businesses investing in future talent.
Our apprenticeship programme has helped shape the careers of many of our colleagues, with several long-term team members beginning their journey through a Hazelton Mountford insurance apprenticeship. By combining professional qualifications with real-world experience, we continue to provide meaningful opportunities in insurance.
Hazelton Mountford’s Commitment to Apprenticeships in Insurance
For over a decade, apprenticeships have been a key part of how we develop talent and strengthen our business for the future. We believe that offering hands-on learning, structured training, and mentorship helps apprentices build confidence, practical knowledge and lasting professional skills.
Managing Director Gordon Hazelton explains:
“Our apprenticeship programme has seen a lot of success over the years, giving young professionals the chance to grow within a supportive environment, guided by experienced mentors. Apprentices make great employees because from the outset of their career, they absorb how we work, our values and culture. They can have a long-term career with us. Several experienced and senior members of the team started as Hazelton Mountford apprentices.”
This long-term investment in people has allowed us to create clear career pathways within the insurance sector, supporting individuals from entry-level roles through to senior positions.
Why Apprenticeships Create Skills for Life
Apprenticeships provide a powerful alternative route into the UK insurance industry, allowing individuals to earn while they learn and gain recognised qualifications alongside practical experience. At Hazelton Mountford, apprentices benefit from:
- Real working experience in a professional insurance environment
- Structured training and ongoing support
- Dedicated mentorship from experienced colleagues
- Opportunities to achieve industry-recognised qualifications
- A clear long-term career pathway
By blending professional development with day-to-day responsibilities, apprentices develop the confidence and skills needed for sustainable careers, truly building skills for life.
Meet Our New Apprentices: Emma and Jumeirah
In September, we welcomed our newest apprentices, Emma and Jumeirah, who are already making a positive impact.
Jumeirah’s Apprenticeship Journey
Jumeirah chose an apprenticeship to gain practical experience while earning and learning simultaneously. She explains:
“I chose an apprenticeship as it gave me the chance to earn while I learn and build practical skills in a real working environment. Hazelton Mountford has helped me grow both professionally and personally, offering opportunities I would never have had if I had taken a different career route.”
Her experience reflects the benefits of apprenticeship training in the UK, where real-world learning plays a key role in professional development.
Emma’s Path into the Insurance Industry
Emma joined Hazelton Mountford to gain professional qualifications while building hands-on experience in insurance. She says:
“I decided to go for an apprenticeship because I wanted to gain professional qualifications while learning in a hands-on environment. It has allowed me to enter the insurance industry without prior experience. HM has supported me through ongoing training, practical learning opportunities, and dedicated time to prepare for my exam, which I expect to take in the next couple of months.”
Her journey highlights how apprenticeships create accessible career opportunities in insurance for those without previous industry experience.
Looking Ahead: Supporting the Next Generation of Insurance Professionals
As we mark National Apprenticeship Week, we remain committed to developing future talent and supporting long-term careers through apprenticeships. Our programme continues to help individuals gain valuable professional skills, contribute to our business and grow within a supportive and collaborative environment.
Join the team
Are you inspired by the achievements of Hazelton Mountford’s apprentices? Explore career opportunities by visiting our dedicated Careers page, and keep an eye out for our 2026 apprentice intake, with opportunities opening soon. Get in touch today to register your interest.
To learn more about previous apprenticeships and the impact they’ve had on our team, check out previous articles: