New for 2026 — School Improvement Programme: a levy-funded Level 6 route for improvement leaders. Find out more

National College of Education
Back to learner resources
On programme· 9 min read

Association of Apprentices: your free membership guide

As an NCE learner, you are eligible for free membership of the Association of Apprentices, giving you another community, practical resources and development opportunities alongside your apprenticeship.

An apprentice using a laptop in a bright learning space

The Association of Apprentices (AoA) is a national, not-for-profit membership organisation that helps apprentices across the UK connect, learn and fulfil their potential.

Association of Apprentices

Through NCE's partnership with AoA, your membership is free. You can join a dedicated apprentice community, build your professional network and use learning resources designed to support your progress at work and on programme.

Register for your free apprentice membership in a few minutes.

Register for free membership

See how AoA membership works

Video blocked

This video is hosted by Vimeo, which sets its own cookies. Allow media cookies to watch it here.

Watch on Vimeo ↗
An introduction to Association of Apprentices membership

What your free membership gives you

Unique communities

AoA connects you with other apprentices by subject, location and shared interests, giving you access to information, advice and career-related networks beyond your immediate workplace.

Unmissable events

Members can take part in virtual and in-person events, from motivational speakers to masterclasses on topics such as critical thinking.

Extra development

The platform includes opportunities to strengthen the personal and professional skills that support your everyday performance and future career applications.

AoA Connect

AoA Connect is a dedicated social and professional networking platform. Use it on desktop or through the mobile app to meet apprentices from across the UK, join groups, sign up for events, vote in polls and connect with your peers. AoA Connect is available to UK-based current or recently completed apprentice members aged 18 and over.

Video blocked

This video is hosted by YouTube, which sets its own cookies. Allow media cookies to watch it here.

Watch on YouTube ↗
How to use AoA Connect

Download AoA Connect

You can access AoA Connect through the members' area or download the app for your device.

Get AoA Connect on Google PlayDownload AoA Connect on the App Store

AoA Learn

AoA Learn gives apprentice members access to a large catalogue of e-learning, assessments and advice. Topics range from self-awareness, resilience and relationships to interview practice, receiving feedback, preparing for end-point assessment and understanding workplace responsibilities.

The resources can help you identify your strengths and development areas, then build your skills at your own pace. Relevant learning may also count towards your off-the-job training when it is directly related to your apprenticeship and properly recorded.

Video blocked

This video is hosted by YouTube, which sets its own cookies. Allow media cookies to watch it here.

Watch on YouTube ↗
How to use AoA Learn

How to get started

  1. Register: complete the short AoA apprentice membership form.
  2. Create your account: add your registration details to activate your free membership.
  3. Explore the members' area: open AoA Connect and AoA Learn, join relevant groups and review upcoming events.
  4. Use it on the go: download the AoA Connect app for Apple or Android if you would like mobile access.
  5. Apply what you learn: discuss useful resources with your Professional Learning Mentor and record eligible activity as off-the-job learning where appropriate.

Your free access starts with the Association of Apprentices registration form.

Get started with AoA

Useful NCE guides alongside your membership

AoA gives you additional community and development resources. Your NCE learner guides remain the place to check what is expected on programme and how to record off-the-job learning.

Understand your responsibilities and the support available throughout your programme.

Read what is expected of you

Learn what counts and how to keep an accurate record of your development activity.

Read the off-the-job training guide

After your apprenticeship

AoA membership also covers apprentices who have completed their programme. As an alumnus member, you can continue building your network and use AoA's learning tools for ongoing professional and personal development, including opportunities to share your experience with current apprentices.

Need more help?

For questions about AoA membership, contact the Association of Apprentices directly. If you would like help using AoA alongside your NCE programme, speak to your Professional Learning Mentor.

Ready to take the next step?

Register your interest in an NCE apprenticeship.

Tell us a little about your role and the sector you work in. A member of our learner team will be in touch with the pathways that fit you best.

Register your interest
Learner FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Association of Apprentices?+
The Association of Apprentices is a national, not-for-profit membership organisation where apprentices across the UK can connect, network and develop. Membership includes AoA Connect, AoA Learn and members-only events.
Who can join?+
Current apprentices and people who have recently completed an apprenticeship and live in the UK can join. AoA Connect is available to members aged 18 and over.
How much does membership cost?+
It is free. There is no membership cost for current apprentices or people who have completed an apprenticeship.
How do I become a member?+
Complete the short apprentice membership registration form. Once registered, you can access AoA Connect and AoA Learn from the members' area.
Why should I become a member?+
Membership gives you access to apprentice networks, exclusive events, learning resources and development opportunities that can support you during your apprenticeship and beyond.
Can I remain a member after I finish my apprenticeship?+
Yes. Alumni members can continue to build their social and professional network, use learning tools and share their experience with current apprentices.
What is AoA Connect?+
AoA Connect is the Association's social networking feature. Members can meet other apprentices, ask questions, complete polls, attend events and join groups that interest them. It is available on desktop and as a mobile app.
How do I access AoA Connect?+
After registering as an AoA member, open AoA Connect from the members' area of the Association of Apprentices website or use the mobile app.
What is AoA Learn?+
AoA Learn is an online learning feature with e-learning, assessments and advice covering personal and professional development topics.
How do I access AoA Learn?+
After registering as an AoA member, open AoA Learn from the members' area of the Association of Apprentices website.
Where can I find AoA events?+
Events are listed on the Events page in AoA Connect and on the Association of Apprentices website.
What is the Apprentice Council?+
The Apprentice Council is made up of current and past apprentices. It helps guide the Association's work so its services reflect the needs of members.
Can I give feedback or ask another question?+
Yes. The Association is led by apprentices and welcomes member feedback. Contact AoA through its website if your question is not answered here.

Keep reading

All resources

Need help or advice?

We're happy to help. Get in touch with our team. Real people, real answers, no pressure.

Contact us