ITP Approved to Deliver Telecoms Apprenticeship Training, Backed by Industry Support from Vodafone and Cornerstone
The Institute of Telecommunications Professionals (ITP) has officially been approved as a registered training provider for the Level 4 Cellular Network Field Engineer (CNFE) apprenticeship — a move that directly responds to the UK’s growing need for skilled telecoms engineers.
After more than a decade of supporting apprenticeships across the industry, this marks a major evolution for the ITP, transitioning from talent advocate to hands-on training provider. Backed by leading employers including Vodafone and Cornerstone, the programme is designed to meet urgent industry demands for future-ready engineering talent.
“This is a significant shift for the ITP and for the sector,” said Charlotte Goodwill, CEO of the ITP. “We’re stepping up to not just support apprenticeships, but to deliver training — ensuring learners are equipped to meet the standards the industry needs.”
The CNFE standard focuses on the skills required to build and maintain mobile infrastructure – including 5G – at a time when pressure on UK connectivity has never been higher. By delivering this programme directly, the ITP is closing the gap between industry expectations and apprentice preparedness.
Since 2013, the ITP has placed thousands of apprentices into the telecoms sector. Achieving provider status allows the organisation to take a more active role in developing the next generation of engineers, shaped by real-world demands and employer feedback.
Vodafone and Cornerstone — supporters of the ITP’s work — welcomed the announcement.
“We’re proud to support the ITP as they take this next step,” said Andrew Murchison, Access Assurance Manager at Vodafone. “The CNFE standard is key to delivering the connectivity the UK needs, and apprenticeships like this are vital for creating lasting career pathways in our sector.”
“As the industry evolves, it’s essential that training evolves with it,” said Andy Train, CNO at Cornerstone. “We’re pleased to support the ITP in helping to develop a highly skilled, future-ready workforce that reflects the needs of our networks and partners.”
Notes to Editors
For media enquiries, please contact:
Jo Evans
jo.evans@theitp.org
01932 788 861
www.theitp.org
About the ITP
The Institute of Telecommunications Professionals (ITP) is the UK’s leading independent membership body for professionals in the telecommunications and digital technology sectors. With a proud heritage dating back to 1906, we are committed to advancing the industry, supporting professional development, and shaping the future of global connectivity.
As a not-for-profit organisation, we serve a diverse community of individuals and businesses – from aspiring apprentices and seasoned professionals to multinational organisations and innovative start-ups. Through expert-led events, industry-leading publications, and professional mentoring, we empower our members with the skills, insights, and networks needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
We’re proud to be an apprenticeship training provider, committed to supporting the next generation of industry professionals. Through attracting new talent, delivering high-quality training, and developing a strong pipeline of skilled individuals, we help shape the future of the sector. In addition, we offer tailored career development programmes, thought leadership opportunities, and a dynamic member platform that fosters collaboration and knowledge sharing.
At the ITP, we are more than a membership body – we are a driving force behind the telecommunications industry, championing innovation, excellence, and professional growth.
About Cornerstone
Cornerstone is the UK’s leading mobile infrastructure services company, managing a portfolio of over 15,700 sites nationwide. We enable reliable, high-speed mobile connectivity by building and maintaining the infrastructure that underpins the UK’s digital economy. We’re proud to support initiatives like the CNFE apprenticeship, helping to develop a skilled, future-ready telecoms workforce. By investing in talent, technology and partnerships, we’re shaping a more connected, inclusive and resilient digital future for the UK.
About Vodafone
Vodafone is a leading telecommunications company in Europe and Africa
We connect for a better future, using technology to improve people’s lives and enable an inclusive, sustainable digital society.
We are guided by our Social Contract – how we bring our purpose to life through what we do. It is our commitment to society, customers, and governments to connect rural communities, to enable access to education, healthcare, and financial services; and to help businesses. With these actions we also contribute to the success of United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Through our business, we aim to build a digital society that enhances socioeconomic progress, is inclusive for all and does not come at a cost to our planet.
About CNFE
CNFE is a cross-industry organisation which focuses on the growing need to train and recruit the next generation of telecom engineers. The organisation, which includes Vodafone and mobile infrastructure experts Cornerstone in its members, work to identify, educate and develop appropriate education pathways in school curriculum and college courses to encourage young people to consider telecom engineering as a future career path. More information is available at www.cnfe.co.uk
