𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸

I’m a massive fan of apprenticeships. I’ve said it before, but I think there are a whole host of avenues you can explore after leaving school. When I was in sixth form there were only two of us who didn’t take the university path, and it was a unique route at the time to do an apprenticeship. Fast forward a few years later and I did my CIPD qualifications whilst working as an HR Advisor. I have since developed apprenticeship schemes in both telecoms and manufacturing, and loved seeing the progress that apprentices have made in different companies. 

With my two children at secondary school now it’s great to see that apprenticeships are given more focus and there are more talks throughout the year.

If you’re an employer with a payroll bill over £3m you will be paying 0.5% of your payroll fund into the apprenticeship levy. There are some changes expected to the levy this year, transitioning it into a more flexible "Growth and Skills Levy". Detailed funding guidelines are expected to be published in the coming months, so employers can plan and adapt their training strategies accordingly.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗳𝗶𝘁𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗵𝗶𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗿𝗲:

- Skilled & Tailored Workforce – Apprentices gain industry-specific skills suited to your business. This is especially important in engineering where there is a skills shortage 

- Increased Productivity – Fresh ideas, innovation, and improved efficiency. It’s amazing to see the great ideas that apprentices have. I have also seen success in having them as reverse mentors

- Higher Retention & Loyalty – Apprentices often stay long-term, reducing hiring costs.

- Business Growth & Reputation – Supports social responsibility, youth employment, and industry development.

- There are various funding options available too. 

If you’re an employer looking to start offering an apprenticeship, there is some useful info here: Employing an apprentice: Overview - GOV.UK

Employing an apprentice benefits businesses, individuals, and the economy. Businesses gain a cost-effective, skilled, and loyal workforce while improving productivity and reputation. Apprentices receive hands-on training, career opportunities, and industry experience. The economy benefits from reduced unemployment and a stronger, more skilled workforce. It's a win-win for all.