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This report provides a snapshot of issues surrounding apprenticeship completion. It uses existing data and knowledge as a research base to examine why apprentices and trainees cancel and withdraw from training contracts. The project aimed to identify the methods used by Group Training Organisations (GTOs) to improve the rates of retention among apprentices/trainees and to incorporate these methods into advice to employers about ways of improving their apprentice/trainee retention and completion rates. The methodology included reviewing exit interview information, interviewing employers successful in retaining apprentices, and a brief literature review. The project found that apprentices and trainees often saw the offer of better paid and/or a full time job more compelling than completing their qualification (this was particularly the case for older trainees). Monitoring and supporting apprentices on the job, in their off-the-job training, and in their personal development, was shown to be important for continued motivation, and the support of a helpful Registered Training Organisation (RTO) assisted in achieving a quality outcome.