Why apprentices would be good for your business

Here are some bottom line business benefits which show a clear return on investment:

• Apprentices and individuals who are dedicated and committed to their chosen profession have a positive impact on business performance
• We provide a range of services to lower your recruitment, training and retention costs
• Greater productivity, as an employee is given the training and skills they need to improve the way they carry out their role
• Increased employee satisfaction as they feel valued and that you are taking care of their professional development needs
• Greater loyalty and quality of work as your employees look to repay your investment in upskilling them

What is an Apprenticeship?

It’s a work-based training programme designed around the needs of you, the employer, which leads to nationally recognised qualifications. Both new recruits as well as existing members of staff can take part. There are over 190 types of Apprenticeships suitable for almost every type of job role from retail to engineering to healthcare for every size of business. And the National Apprenticeship Service helps to fund the training, so it’s often free of charge.

The cost is lower than you may think!

• If your apprentice is aged between 16 and 18, government funding will cover the cost of their training. If they are aged over 19 you may be required to make a contribution towards the training cost.
• As an employer, you will pay the Apprentice a salary reflective of industry rates and experience. The minimum wage is £95 a week but the average is £170 a week.

Why choose us?

We’re experts in providing apprenticeships and vocational qualifications. You’re in safe hands: Over 20,000 young people and adults are currently improving their lives, learning new skills and achieving real qualifications, including National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs), Apprenticeships, Skills for Life, Key Skills and Technical Certificates each year. We are partners with over 12,000 employers throughout the UK, equipping businesses with the skills to compete in local and global markets via government programmes. Our ever expanding team of over 800 employees delivers excellence in adult learning and skills on behalf of the Learning and Skills Council, Jobcentre Plus and the Department for Work and Pensions.

You’re in good company

Many large businesses have already been tapping in to this great resource – apprentices – for years now:

• BT estimated their engineering apprentices are 7.5% more productive than non-apprentices and generated a higher annual net profit of over £1300 per apprentice compared to non-apprentices.
• BAE Systems apprentices who start their working life with the company have a higher commitment to the overall aims and objectives of the company (87% retention rate).
• Over 80% of British Gas’ gas servicing and installation managers joined the company as apprentices.
• Compass plc reported significant reductions in training and recruitment costs due to higher staff retention rates since introducing Apprenticeships. Apprentice progression into management positions within the company has also saved management recruitment costs.