National Apprenticeship Week 2026: Growing Careers at Tees Active

For over a decade, Tees Active has been delivering a highly successful apprenticeship programme designed to open doors for individuals seeking an exciting and rewarding career in the leisure industry. Our apprenticeships offer a valuable pathway for those who choose an alternative to further or higher education, providing the opportunity to learn, develop and thrive in a supportive, hands‑on environment.

In partnership with Lifetime Training, the 15‑month apprenticeships combine on‑the‑job learning with structured off‑the‑job training, allowing individuals to gain real experience while building industry‑recognised qualifications. Whether you’re just starting out or ready to take the next step, Tees Active can help you kickstart your career and grow your skills in a sector full of opportunity.

There are currently two apprenticeship pathways at Tees Active. The first is the Leisure Assistant Apprenticeship, where learners gain essential industry qualifications while working within our leisure facilities. This hands‑on pathway helps them develop the skills needed to create safe, engaging and community‑focused environments.

The second pathway is the Health & Fitness Apprenticeship, ideal for individuals passionate about supporting others in achieving their fitness goals. This route provides practical experience and specialist knowledge to help apprentices thrive within the health and wellbeing sector.

One of Tees Actives current Leisure Assistant Apprentices, Lewis, is based at IB Leisure. Since starting his apprenticeship in October 2025, Lewis said “I am amazed at how many new skills I have developed. The biggest area of growth for me so far has been customer service, my confidence has increased significantly and I’m far more comfortable engaging with members of the public”. Looking ahead, Lewis hopes to join Tees Active as a full‑time team member once he completes his apprenticeship.

A standout apprenticeship success story is Katie, who joined Tees Active in 2017 on the Activity Leadership NVQ Level 2 apprenticeship. Today, she is a proud GoClimb Supervisor, a testament to her commitment, hard work and passion for the role.

Katie quickly proved herself during her apprenticeship, becoming a contracted member of the GoClimb team, her favourite element of the programme. Her dedication and enthusiasm supported her progression into a supervisory position. She has since completed an 18‑month Level 3 Leadership apprenticeship while thriving in her supervisor role.

Katie says, “I learnt so much from the team around me, it is such a welcoming, supportive culture.” A mindset she now brings into her own recruitment and staff development. Katie’s confidence has flourished; once shy, she is now an assured communicator who engages daily with children, parents and colleagues alike.

Katie recommends the apprenticeship route at Tees Active, saying “It offers such versatility and diverse career paths, there is something for everyone.”

Tees Active are currently recruiting a Leisure Assistant Apprentice – see details here