Dear Colleagues,

The peer-reviewed papers from the 9th International Network for Innovative Apprenticeships (INAP) 2025 Conference on Apprenticeships: Future Global Trends, held on 8th and 9th May in the Fielder Centre, Hatfield, England provide a unique insight into apprenticeship practices across the world. Bringing together researchers, educators, industry stakeholders and training providers, the conference explored the evolving nature of apprenticeships worldwide, examining both persistent challenges and potential opportunities.

Apprenticeships have a profound impact on workforce development by providing essential skills and knowledge to people and contributing to a nation’s economic and social resilience, as well as to company performance. The strengths and weaknesses of the apprenticeship systems across the globe are examined in this collection, raising important questions about the future of apprenticeships and the outcomes they offer.

The collection of research papers contains peer-reviewed papers from ten countries, examining both well-known apprenticeship countries and lesser-known systems. By exploring how different national systems are tackling challenges such as completion rates, employer engagement and policy reform, the papers contribute new perspectives on how these factors shape apprenticeship systems. Emerging policy frameworks and innovative teaching methodologies are also discussed.

A central theme of this collection is the ongoing changes to global apprenticeship frameworks. The role of curriculum, technology and the inclusion of underrepresented groups in apprenticeships are just a few of the emerging themes shaping change. Several papers examine the challenges and strategies for fostering partnerships and relationships between industry, and other sectors such as health, and training providers; others look at the ways artificial intelligence, digital tools and automation continue to influence apprenticeship education. Many papers in this collection highlight barriers and facilitators for underrepresented groups, exploring issues such as gender disparities, economic challenges, the recognition of prior learning and the need for equitable access.

While apprenticeship systems may differ across countries and contexts, their success depends on robust policy development, effective educational strategies, and healthy relationships with employers and the economy more generally. Achieving this requires collaboration between policymakers, educators and employers, ensuring essential support and guidance for all apprentices. The role of TVET teachers is paramount and features as a common theme, explicitly and implicitly, in many of the papers.

This collection offers a deep understanding of the critical issues facing apprenticeship systems today and contributes to shaping the future of apprenticeships globally.