Care UK continues to prioritise its commitment to learning and development through apprenticeships. By offering a range of programmes tailored to different roles and skill levels, Care UK is empowering colleagues to grow and thrive in their careers.
Care UK has seen significant engagement with their apprenticeship program, with over 633 colleagues enrolled since its launch in 2017. Notably, 140 colleagues successfully completed their chosen apprenticeships in 2025.
From new recruits to senior management, apprenticeships allow colleagues to improve their skills and knowledge in a practical environment, can lead to enhanced career opportunities, and provide a significant sense of achievement for colleagues completing their courses.
Care UK offers more than 25 types of apprenticeships – ranging from care to our award-winning Chef Academy, marketing, and leadership courses. With active apprenticeships taking place in 86% of homes, and across Care UK’s Support Centre, it's clear that Care UK is committed to creating a culture of learning and development.
The results speak for themselves. A recent survey conducted by Care UK’s Learning and Development team showed that 94% of achievers said their apprenticeship benefited their career, with 57% receiving a promotion or being entrusted with additional responsibilities. Many were happy with the learning experience they received, with 93%agreeing that they had learned new skills over their apprenticeship. By investing in its colleagues, Care UK is investing in residents and their loved ones – ensuring consistently high-quality care and support functions through continued learning.
Care UK’s Learning and Development Co-ordinator, Carla Pedroso Esteves said: “We are incredibly proud of our apprenticeship programme. Many of our home managers and directors have developed their career paths - from starting as home team members to progressing to their current senior role.”
“I truly believe that the success of our apprenticeships reflects the value of learning and development in the social care sector. Care is a great career for people who want to learn valuable skills, as well as make a difference to the lives of residents and their loved ones.”
As Care UK continues to support colleagues, apprenticeship programmes will remain a key part of its strategy. Their success is highlighted by two recent colleagues, and here are two shining examples of Care UK’s apprenticeship programmes: Mikias Muluneh Zerihun and Robert Crane.
Chasing excellence: Mikias' journey within Care UK
Mikias Muluneh Zerihun joined Care UK in September 2021 as maintenance manager for Hammersmith-based care home, St Vincent’s. His dedication to, and passion for, learning have led him to excel in his role, and his story serves as an inspiration to others.
Mikias started his apprenticeship with Care UK in July 2024, and has since completed one apprenticeship, achieving a distinction in Property Maintenance Operative Level 2.
Mikias' apprenticeship has had a significant impact on his career, strengthening his practical maintenance skills. With this comes a clear understanding of building safety, health and safety, and compliance within a care environment. He has gained experience in fire safety checks, water safety awareness, equipment inspections, and risk identification. Completing his functional skills in maths and English as part of his apprenticeship has also improved his confidence, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Talking about his learning journey, Mikias says: “I would encourage others to consider an apprenticeship as it provides valuable hands-on experience, builds confidence, and creates real opportunities for career progression. Completing my Property Maintenance Operative Level 2 apprenticeship with a distinction, has been a proud achievement and an important step in my career. The apprenticeship programme has helped me take on more responsibility and carry out my role more professionally and independently."
From apprentice to leader: Robert's journey within Care UK
Robert Crane, Deputy Manager at Deewater Grange care home in Chester, joined Care UK in October 2019 with no prior experience in the sector.
Robert's manager spotted his potential and encouraged him to pursue his Level 2 apprenticeship in 2023. He excelled, achieving a distinction, and was soon offered the team leader role at Care UK’s Station House care home based in Crewe. This was just the beginning – he went on to complete his Level 3 apprenticeship with another distinction, gaining valuable knowledge and experience that earned him a promotion to unit manager of a 32-bed dementia suite.
Robert's ascent continued as he took on interim roles, including deputy manager, and began his Level 4 apprenticeship. His hard work paid off with a permanent deputy manager post at Deewater Grange. Alongside his responsibilities, he's also completing the Future Deputy Manager course, demonstrating his commitment to growth and excellence.
Robert credits his apprenticeships for his rapid progression and commented: “After my first apprenticeship, I realised all the benefits it had brought me, both in terms of my practical working life and my progression – as it helped me to become a team leader. I got the hunger to learn more about the care sector, and for new ways to help the residents I look after."
These success stories reflect Care UK's dedication to nurturing talent and promoting from within. By empowering colleagues like Robert and Mikias, Care UK is ensuring exceptional care for residents and a bright future for their teams.
To find out more about Care UK’s apprenticeship programme, please visit: https://www.careuk.com/careers/why-join-us/learning-and-development/apprenticeships
