Building on the Routes to Employment research outcomes, the Routes team has developed a pilot project to explore innovative solutions to this pressing issue. By testing new ideas, we aim to open up new employment pathways for refugee women in London and potentially drive systemic change in addressing unemployment within this community.

At the heart of our pilot project is the exploration of apprenticeships as a new employment route for refugee women. Through the Pre-Apprenticeship course delivered by Routes, we will support a group of refugee women in understanding and navigating apprenticeship programmes as viable pathways to employment. This initiative is carried out in collaboration with our delivery partner, WorkWhile, who are experts in encouraging and supporting employers to create accessible apprenticeship opportunities.


Pre-Apprenticeship Course for Refugee Women in London

Empowering Women from Refugee Backgrounds


The pre-apprenticeship course is designed to enhance the skills, confidence, and career prospects of women from refugee backgrounds in London. By participating, you’ll gain an in-depth understanding of apprenticeship programmes as a gateway to employment, covering the application process, job roles, and workplace expectations. The course also provides an introduction to UK working culture, offering invaluable connections with experienced professionals in the local labour market.

Course Highlights


Through interactive, hands-on practice with volunteers from professional industries, you’ll build essential employment and interpersonal skills. The course is all about equipping refugee women with the knowledge and confidence needed to embark on successful careers.

Exciting Apprenticeship Opportunities


We are partnering with a dedicated organisation to arrange job interviews for apprenticeships in fields like business administration, accounting, project management, HR, and more. These apprenticeships will start in September/October 2025 and require a full-time commitment to work and training. Participants should be ready to take necessary steps such as preparing for interviews, completing language and math tests, and attending interviews.

Interested in joining the pre-apprenticeship course?

We have completed our first Pre-Apprenticeship Course in May 2025. We are currently closed for applications. If you are interested in learning more about apprenticeships, please reach out to the Routes team on hello@routescollective.com.
Meanwhile, please keep an eye on our website and blog, as we’ll be sharing the learnings from this first pilot!

Please also have a listen to our 2025 Refugee Week podcast here, where we talk more about apprenticeships and employment for refugee communities. This episode is part of the Experts by Experience podcast, by Refugee Action.