More than 600 apprentices joining each year – Specsavers commitment to strengthening communities 

Specsavers is proud to mark National Apprenticeship Week 2026 by celebrating the achievements of its award-winning apprenticeship programmes, which continues to set the benchmark for excellence in training, development and career progression across the UK. 

Each year, around 600 new apprentices join Specsavers across a wide range of roles, with approximately 350 achieving a Level 3 (or equivalent) qualification annually, demonstrating the organisation’s long-term commitment to high-quality skills development and professional growth. 

This dedication has been recognised nationally, with Specsavers named an Ofsted Outstanding Provider and a recipient of a prestigious 2024 Princess Royal Training Award. In 2025, the business was also crowned Large Employer of the Year  at the National Apprenticeship and Skills Awards and Specsavers apprentice Katie House was named Apprentice of the Year, reinforcing its leadership in workforce development.

Ninety-eight percent of Specsavers apprentices achieve distinction grades, reflecting the strength of mentoring, learning support and real-world experience embedded in the programme and the retention rate for apprentices is 22% higher than that of those in comparable roles.  

Dena Wyatt, Head of Apprenticeships, says, ‘It’s my favourite week in the calendar. National Apprenticeship Week is a chance to celebrate apprentices, their incredible achievements and stories, and the employers who support them. I am always in awe of the success, talent and ambition on show.’  

For the third consecutive year, the organisation has ranked among the UK’s Top 100 apprenticeship employers, rising to17th position.  

As National Apprenticeship Week 2026 begins, Specsavers celebrates not just awards, but the people behind them who are empowering individuals, strengthening communities, and building the future of healthcare, retail and manufacturing.