Building careers through
Recruitment
Apprenticeships
Training
About us
Starting Off is a long‑established organisation with a strong reputation for delivering high‑quality recruitment and training services across the UK. We specialise in apprenticeship recruitment and development, as well as permanent placements for businesses of all sizes.
Founded in Northamptonshire in 1989, we’ve grown significantly over the years and now partner with employers nationwide.
Empowering People. Strengthening Businesses.
Who we support
Learners and job-seekers
Individuals are at the heart of what we do, whether you are a school leaver looking for your first job, an experienced professional looking to further your career, or want to increase your skills with training, we can help you.
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Employers and business
Employers shape the opportunities we help create. Whether you’re growing your team with new apprentices, strengthening staff skills through private training, or seeking support with recruitment, we work alongside you to build the talent your business needs.
Parents
We understand how important it is for parents to feel confident in their young person’s next steps. If you’d like to be involved in their apprenticeship choices or training journey, we’re here to support you too — offering guidance, clarity, and a partnership that helps them thrive.
Schools and colleges
We’re proud to support our local schools and colleges in preparing students for their next steps. From attending careers fairs and running mock interviews to delivering apprenticeship presentations and training sessions, we help young people understand their options and make informed choices.
Our specialist areas
Accountancy
Behind every successful business is strong financial insight, making accountancy a highly respected and in-demand career choice. Whether you’re starting out, progressing, or changing direction, a recognised qualification can open the door to long-term success.
At Starting Off, we deliver award-winning AAT Accountancy qualifications through flexible pathways, including apprenticeships, privately funded courses, and Advanced Learner Loans. You’ll gain practical, real-world skills that employers value - building your confidence, strengthening your CV, and setting you up for a rewarding career.
Business administration skills are essential to every successful organisation, making them one of the most employable and in-demand career choices today. Whether you’re stepping into your first role, ready to progress, or looking for a fresh start, a recognised qualification can fast-track your opportunities.
At Starting Off, we deliver high-quality Business Administration training through flexible apprenticeships and privately funded courses. You’ll gain hands-on, practical skills that employers are actively looking for, boosting your confidence, enhancing your CV, and helping you stand out in a competitive job market. Choose the route that works for you and take the next step towards a rewarding career.
Business administration
Customer service
Customer service is at the heart of every successful business and alongside Business Administration, is one of the most valuable and in-demand skillsets in today’s job market. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to build a long-term career, developing professional customer service skills can set you apart and fast-track your progress.
At Starting Off, our Customer Service Apprenticeships give you the opportunity to earn while you learn, gaining real-world experience alongside a nationally recognised qualification. You’ll build confidence, communication skills, and the ability to deliver exceptional service—qualities employers actively seek. Take the first step towards a rewarding, people-focused career with hands-on training that fits your future.
From troubleshooting tech issues to keeping businesses connected, IT professionals play a vital role in keeping organisations running smoothly. It’s a career path that offers strong progression, excellent job security, and opportunities across every industry.
At Starting Off, our IT Apprenticeships give you the opportunity to earn while you learn, gaining hands-on experience while working towards a nationally recognised qualification. You’ll build real-world skills in technical support, systems, and communication, giving you the confidence and expertise employers are looking for. Step into a fast-moving industry with training designed to launch your IT career.
IT
Marketing
If you’re creative, digitally minded, and enjoy understanding what makes people engage with brands, a career in marketing could be the perfect fit. Multi-channel marketing combines content, social media, campaigns, and data to help businesses reach and connect with their audiences effectively.
At Starting Off, our Multi-Channel Marketing Apprenticeship allows you to earn while you learn, gaining real industry experience while working towards a nationally recognised qualification. You’ll develop in-demand skills across digital platforms, campaign planning, and analytics, equipping you to stand out in a fast-paced, ever-evolving industry. Start building a career where no two days are the same and your ideas can make a real impact.
Great leaders don’t just manage people - they inspire performance, build strong teams, and drive business success. If you’re ready to step up, take on more responsibility, or strengthen your leadership skills, the right training can make all the difference.
At Starting Off, we offer a Team Leader Apprenticeship alongside flexible, privately funded Team Leader workshops, giving you options that fit your role, experience, and goals. You’ll develop practical leadership, communication, and decision-making skills that you can apply immediately in the workplace. Whether you’re new to management or looking to grow your impact, our programmes are designed to help you lead with confidence and deliver results.
Leadership and management
Driven by values
At the heart of everything we do is SHAPE—our core values that guide how we work, support others, and grow together. These values are more than words; they shape our culture, our services, and the experience we create for every learner, employer, and team member.
What people say about us
- After beginning my A -levels at college, I realised that this wasn’t the route for me. I decided to sign up to Starting Off, and I am so glad that I did. The staff are all amazing – the attention and care put in by everyone is great. You get amazing advice on career options and interview techniques. I now work in a Marketing Position at KAB Seating
- Alice Crofts
- KAB Seating
- At Starting Off, the environment is very positive, and I have always felt very welcome and supported by the staff at Starting Off. The trainers push you to the best of your ability and I am now a Trainee Support Officer. In my opinion, apprenticeships are one of the best ways to get your career started.
- Catherine Kealy
- Northampton Borough Council
- I definitely recommend working with Starting Off if you are looking for an apprenticeship. I began my search for apprenticeships around a month ago and since working with Starting Off, have secured myself the perfect apprenticeship. I would highly recommend Lucy Harris at Starting Off, she has been a tremendous help during the search for an apprenticeship, continuously going above and beyond to make sure we found the most suitable apprenticeship. I am massively thankful to Lucy for efficiently making the search for an apprenticeship so straight forward and awarding. I would use Starting Off again if necessary, knowing i would receive excellent and service sudden results. 😊
- Daisy Palmer-Mitchell
- I had the best experience with starting off. Lucy Harris helped in in just a month find and secure an apprenticeship in something i enjoyed. Couldn’t recommend it enough!
- Matilda Allam