The UK Boardroom Apprentice Learning and Development Programme has released its 2025 evaluation report, detailing outcomes from the third UK cohort and examining how the programme supports wider access to board roles across the country.
Established in 2017 by Eileen Mullan, the Boardroom Apprentice Programme is designed to prepare individuals for service on public and voluntary sector boards. It provides structured learning, direct boardroom experience and individual support to help participants gain the skills and confidence required to contribute effectively at board level.
Eileen Mullan said: “The Boardroom Apprentice Programme exists to bridge the gap between aspiration to serve and the reality to do so. Too often, confidence, access and opportunity stand in the way. This programme is about giving people the knowledge, experience and belief that they belong at the board table.”
The Boardroom Apprentice Programme evaluation outlines a model built around three elements. Participants complete a 12 month placement with a host board, attend a series of learning sessions focused on governance, and receive ongoing guidance from an experienced board buddy. Together, these components are intended to strengthen both understanding and confidence in real governance settings.
Findings from the 2025 cohort show consistently high ratings across multiple measures. According to the Boardroom Apprentice Programme evaluation, 96 per cent of participants rated the programme’s relevance to boardroom environments as excellent or good. The same proportion rated its impact on confidence building at that level. Quality of learning days was rated as excellent or good by 95 per cent of participants, while 93 per cent reported that their expectations were fully met or exceeded.
The evaluation focused on Cohort 3 in 2025 and measured changes in self reported knowledge, understanding and confidence before and after participation. Participants said they applied to gain practical board experience, increase confidence, understand governance responsibilities and prepare for future board or trustee roles. Many also highlighted a motivation to contribute to their communities by applying existing professional experience at board level.
Measured understanding improved substantially across all subject areas. Knowledge of internal and external board environments increased from 4 per cent before the programme to 91 per cent afterwards. Understanding of finances rose from 3 per cent to 95 per cent, while understanding of legal responsibilities and duties increased from 6 per cent to 96 per cent. No participants reported completing the programme without understanding any of the core areas.
Confidence indicators showed similarly strong progress. The Boardroom Apprentice Programme evaluation recorded a 43 per cent increase in participants who strongly agreed they had valuable skills and experience to offer a board immediately. There was also a 42 per cent increase in those who strongly agreed they felt confident asking questions and challenging where appropriate.
Eileen Mullan said: “What matters most is not just knowledge, but how people feel about using it. We consistently see participants start the programme feeling unsure and leave feeling confident, capable and ready to apply. That shift in mindset is critical if we want boards to reflect the communities they serve.”
By the end of the programme, participants increasingly viewed themselves as ready for board roles. Several had already begun applying for positions, and some secured appointments. Participants linked this progress directly to the structure, learning and support provided by the programme.
The report also considered emotional experiences during the programme. Initial feelings of uncertainty were common, but confidence increased steadily as placements and learning progressed. Levels of happiness remained stable throughout, indicating sustained engagement rather than a short lived effect.
Demand for the programme remained strong, with 342 applications received for the 2025 intake. The Boardroom Apprentice Programme evaluation notes that there is no typical participant. Eligibility is open to anyone aged over 18, with selection based on motivation and commitment rather than previous board experience.
Applicant data showed that 57 per cent were women, 13 per cent identified as disabled and 42 per cent reported indicators of social mobility. Applicants also represented a wide range of ethnic backgrounds and sexual orientations.
Eileen Mullan said: “The results from the 2025 cohort reinforce why this work matters. When people are given the right support, structure and opportunity, they step forward. Boards benefit from fresh perspectives, and individuals gain the confidence to contribute meaningfully to public and voluntary sector leadership.”
The 2025 evaluation concludes that feedback from the third UK cohort demonstrates the effectiveness of the programme’s learning and placement approach. It recommends continued delivery to support a diverse and sustainable pipeline of board ready individuals, alongside further exploration of virtual and hybrid learning options in future cohorts
