Apprenticeships

One of the biggest benefits of running an apprenticeship scheme is that it helps create a dedicated, loyal workforce. Most apprentices are young school or college leavers, meaning that they have lots of energy with which to learn the ways of your business as you help them climb the career ladder within your organisation. 86% employers said apprenticeships helped them develop skills relevant to their organisation.

Many companies, particularly those within technology, find it tough to recruit people with the particular skills they need to help move their business forward. Taking on an apprentice solves this problem as you can hire someone with the enthusiasm and talent you are looking for and train them up for a specific role, so helping bridge the skills gap.

Apprentices may have limited workplace experience, but they can offer a fresh perspective and new ideas, which are just as valuable to your growing business. Younger generations have strong technology skills that come from using computers and tools such as social media from an early age, and they can use this knowledge to build competitive advantage.

The cost of funding an apprentice may put some employers off, but apprentices often pay for themselves within a few years and can improve a company’s bottom line by improving effectivity and boosting productivity. 78% of employers said apprenticeships helped them improve productivity and 74% of employers said apprenticeships helped them improve the quality of their product or service.

The initial outlay of hiring an apprentice is often smaller than many companies think, thanks to government funding and the fact that they are paid a reduced wage. A UK Commission on Employment study found that 88% of employers felt apprenticeships were a cost-effective way to train staff.