If you are struggling to recruit employees that have the skills and qualifications that your business needs why not consider taking on an Apprentice and - effectively - grow your own workforce.
According to the National Apprenticeship Service, businesses that have taken on Apprentices have reported increased productivity, improved competitiveness and a committed and competent workforce.
Apprenticeships are open to anyone aged 16+ who is living in England and not taking part in full-time education.
They are available at three levels:
- Intermediate Level Apprenticeships (qualification level 2)
- Advanced Level Apprenticeships (qualification level 3)
- Higher Apprenticeships (qualilfication level 4)
Apprentices can start at any level but the programme must include the following elements:
- A competences qualification - industry specific qualification
- Technical knowledge qualification - in some cases this may be integrated within the competences qualification
- Either Key Skills or Functional Skills qualifications or a GCSE with enhanced content (eg, Maths and English)
Apprentices spend the majority of the time learning the ropes on-the-job but will spend some time on day release to work towards their qualifications.
There is a National Minimum Wage rate for Apprentices. From October 1st 2011 it will be £2.60 per hour. However, most employers choose to offer their Apprentices higher rates of pay.
It is anticipated that an increasing number of young people, who would traditionally have progressed from further education to university, will be taking more of an interest in Apprenticeships due to rises in student tuition fees.
For more information about taking on an Apprentice use the National Apprenticeship Service's online enquiry form or call their employer helpline on 08000 150 600.