#NAW2017: 5 Reasons to Invest in Apprenticeship Training

It’s no surprise that a record number of young people are choosing apprenticeships. Offering the opportunity to earn while you learn, develop new skills and gain nationally-recognised qualifications, apprenticeship training is giving the traditional academic routes a run for their money.

But what’s in it for employers? Here are 5 reasons why you should invest in apprenticeships:

1) Develop a young person’s career
By taking on an apprentice, you have the chance to give something back and harness some of the best young talent in your region. We all have to start somewhere, and apprentices bring new ideas to the table, with most going on to build successful careers with their company once they’ve completed their qualification.*

2) Upskill your workforce
Apprenticeship training isn’t just for new, inexperienced team members, it’s also for experienced staff. You can receive grants to develop experienced employees with the latest knowledge, skills and industry accreditation. Some programmes are fully funded, which means that you can address skills shortages at no extra cost.*

3) Bespoke training
Apprenticeship training is flexible, with tailored pathways to suit the needs of your business. It equips employees with the latest knowledge, skills and industry accreditation, allowing you to stay one step ahead of your competitors.

4) Increase organisational productivity
Apprentices have a positive impact on your bottom line – typically by £10,000 a year according to the Centre for Economics and Business Research. Apprenticeship training enables employees to do their jobs efficiently and effectively. Plus, an overwhelming majority of employers say apprentices have helped improve the quality of their products and services. It’s a no-brainer!

5) Boost employee motivation
Investing in training has a positive impact on employee satisfaction and motivation. By demonstrating a commitment to professional development and creating progression opportunities, you will have a happy workforce, which is key to business success.

If you are interested in taking on an apprentice or upskilling your existing team, please call us on 01752 332 442 for more information.

*Eligibility criteria apply

I just wanted to say the biggest thank you to Vanessa, my trainer. You have made my journey so much easier, I don’t know what I would have done without you. You have been amazing and helped me to achieve my qualification. You’ve guided me through every step of the way, I really appreciate it, Vanessa, you have been my rock.

Katie Shorland, Level 2 Hairdressing

I always struggled in school as I wasn’t very academic, so knew learning on the job would be a better option for me. I would find it difficult to get up for 9am but now I wake up and look forward to my day. I wanted to try a hair apprenticeship as I’ve always been interested in hairdressing, and by the end of the first week, I already loved it!

Jaimee Benson, Level 2 Hairdressing

I have developed a range of new skills through work including the technical, industry skills required for the job, to personal development such as ensuring I am always on time. The biggest change since leaving school is adjusting to the independence you gain from earning a salary. My advice to anyone thinking of doing an apprenticeship would be find what you like doing, and go for it!

Will Birch, Level 2 Bricklaying

Since starting the apprenticeship, I’ve become far more confident. In a classroom, you only interact with your classmates, but through working you develop your people skills as you interact with customers on a daily basis. At school, you are closely monitored and parented, however I am now more independent and feel grown up

Sam Collard, Level 2 Light Vehicle and Maintenance Repair

The most important thing I’ve learnt since leaving school is that there are other routes to success than just academia. I failed my GCSEs, as I never suited the school environment. Now though, I’m really enjoying my apprenticeship as I’ve discovered I learn more through hands-on practice.

Ben Freeman, Level 2 Carpentry

I would just like to thank you and your team for all the amazing work they do, you have provided me with the most invaluable experience which has helped to pave the way of my future. The work you do for young people is incredible!

Luke Kowalski, Teaching Assistant and former apprentice at Sir Robert Gefferys School