EFI Training Highlights the Value of Apprenticeships at Drapers Inner Circle Summit

At EFI Training, we’re proud to work with Drapers to support and educate leaders across the fashion and retail industry on the value and impact of apprenticeships.

As part of this collaboration, the EFI Training team recently attended the Drapers Inner Circle Summit, where we hosted an interactive session with senior leaders to highlight how businesses can maximise their Apprenticeship Levy to upskill and retain their workforce.

Here’s a look inside the event, our key messages and how apprenticeships can help your business grow.

Sarah Hansford’s Talk: “Apprenticeships Are For All Ages”

Sarah Hansford, Associate Director of Industry Relationships, joined the main stage panel to challenge a common misconception - that apprenticeships are mainly for young people starting their first job. 

In fact, 90% of apprenticeships delivered by EFI Training at the Fashion Retail Academy are undertaken by existing employees at various stages of their careers, from new starters to senior managers. Sarah highlighted how flexible and adaptable apprenticeship training can be - a benefit still underused by many retail employers. 

She encouraged retail leaders to invest in long-term talent development and continuous learning, ensuring a strong pipeline of future leaders.

Maximising The Apprenticeship Levy

Sara Harris, Head of Business Development, shared practical insights on how the Apprenticeship Levy works and the importance of using it effectively - reminding businesses that if they don’t use it, they lose it.

She explained how the levy provides a cost-effective way to support learning and development, and showed the wide range of apprenticeship programmes available through EFI Training. Each programme can be tailored to the evolving needs of employers across the sector, helping businesses nurture skilled, motivated teams.

Apprenticeships at EFI Training

At EFI Training, we offer a wide range of apprenticeship programmes designed to support employees at every stage of their career.

Whether you want to upskill existing staff, develop future leaders, or improve retention, our flexible apprenticeship solutions can be tailored to your business goals. 

Explore our apprenticeship programmes here.

Our Goal

By working with Drapers and leading employers across the industry, our goal is to help businesses invest in talent, strengthen their teams, and build a sustainable future for the fashion and retail industry.