Have you ever considered just how beneficial a good apprenticeship scheme could be to your business?

I went to the Holiday Inn in Sutton today where the monthly networking breakfast of Sutton Chamber of Commerce was presented by Chris Jones of Sutton’s Education Business Partnership.   This is an organisation that works with Sutton’s secondary schools in order to effectively prepare young people for the world of work.  Chris is passionate about getting employers and the business community fully involved in the activities and building partnerships so that young people develop the skills needed for their working lives.

Apprenticeships: Good for Business!   All employers need staff that are motivated and who fully understand the ethos of the business they are in.  Apprentices come in on the ground floor and are trained on the job and gain job-specific skills.  Additionally, they can receive training to work towards nationally recognised qualifications.  Research shows that employers who offer Apprenticeship places understand just how beneficial these are to improving and maintaining productivity and establishing a loyal, committed and competent work-force.  It is not just for school-leavers.   Older staff can also benefit in cases where re-training is required.

The National Apprenticeship Service www.apprenticeships.org.uk offers a free expert support service for employers which will guide you through the entire process.  They also provide a free online recruitment tool that matches potential apprentices with your particular vacancies.  The website has over 100,000 registered candidates.

100% funding is provided for candidates aged 16-18.  For those 19-24 training is part subsidised.  Employers are expected to employ the apprentice and pay the relevant salary that reflects their skills experience and age

Some statistics..

• over 80% of employers who employ apprentices agree they make their workplace more productive;
• 81% of consumers say they would favour using a company that takes on apprentices;
• 92% of employers who employ apprentices believe that Apprenticeships lead to a more motivated and satisfied workforce.

With the threat of long term debt looming over most university students, school leavers are beginning to look to other ways of gaining skills.  Skills shortages are a key threat to the future growth of UK businesses.  Apprentices are an investment to make in the future growth and stability of your business. 

To take on an apprentice and benefit from Government funded training and recruitment support throughout call free on 08000 150 600 or go to www.apprenticeships.org.uk  to find out more.