Meet The Author: Ben Rowland

Ben Rowland is a leading expert and advisor on apprenticeships and post-school options

Ben is CEO of the Association of Employment and Learning Providers (AELP), the sector body for Independent Training Providers who provide vocational education and training to young people and adults. 

Ben founded the pioneering apprenticeships programme, Arch Apprentices, in 2012. Spurred on by a desire to bring world-class educational standards to apprenticeships, this unique training provider created ground-breaking new apprenticeships in occupations such as digital marketing and advertising. Arch was a recognised innovator in apprenticeship programme delivery and persuaded companies such as Google and Facebook to embrace apprenticeships for the first time.  Ben worked with hundreds of small businesses, government departments, NHS Trusts and charities as Arch grew to be the eighth biggest provider of apprenticeships in the UK, supporting tens of thousands of young people to take their first few steps in their new careers. Ben also served for five years on the government's Apprenticeship Stakeholder Board, advising on apprenticeship implementation.  

In 2019, Ben helped Arch Apprentices to merge with fellow learning provider, Avado Learning.  From then until late 2023 he ran Studio 3 Advisory, advising a range of organisations on their careers, development, learning and change programmes.    

Prior to starting Arch, Ben founded RSe Consulting, a boutique consultancy firm subsequently acquired by Tribal Group plc, and was Chair of Toynbee Hall, the social action charity, for six years.  

Ben is a passionate advocate for vocational education and what it can offer to individuals, employers and society.  He holds two university degrees and understands the value of higher education.  He is committed to providing young people – and their families – with the objective information and insight they need to navigate their post-school options.  

Follow Ben on X (formerly Twitter) at @Benrrowland and LinkedIn 

TROTMAN TITLES BY BEN ROWLAND