Octavius Learning and Development Partnership

Octavius Learning and Development Limited Partnership is an independent apprenticeship training provider focused on supporting women and girls into careers in the built environment and STEM sectors. Operating as a women‑led, culturally sensitive limited partnership, it brings together self‑employed partners and associates who have collaborated in delivering services for over a decade. According to its Department for Education provider overview, Octavius aims to work closely with employers to design and deliver apprenticeships that open up technical and construction pathways for female learners. The partnership is led by Barbara Quarless, who has 40 years of experience in the built environment and specialised in apprenticeships as part of her MA studies. Apprentices are supported throughout their programmes by a dedicated team of qualified teachers, coaches and mentors, with an emphasis on helping them successfully complete their apprenticeship. The provider is listed on the government’s Find Apprenticeship Training service as offering apprenticeships across a range of standards including building services engineering installer, carpentry and joinery, construction assembly and installation operative, construction support technician, digital support technician, painter and decorator, project controls technician, and safety, health and environment technician.