Apprenticeships
“COMBINING QUALIFICATIONS WITH EXPERIENCE”
Why should I choose an apprenticeship?
The government has made a record amount of funding available for the Apprenticeship programme which is planned to increase by 2011 to over £1billion. Three quarters of this planned funding will be available for 16-18 year olds. Employers can take advantage of this funding to access free apprenticeships for 16-18 year olds and subsidised apprenticeships for those aged 19 and over.
What is an apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships are nationally recognised programmes designed to provide employees with industry skills. They combine college learning with experience within the workplace. Apprentices come to college one day a week to learn theoretical and practical skills which they then develop in the workplace by working alongside experienced staff. The apprentice has to have a contract of employment for at least 16 hours a week and earn a minimum of £80.00 a weekly.
What are the business benefits of an apprenticeship?
- Tackling Skills Shortages
Apprentices undertake a very comprehensive training programme which improves both their theoretical and practical skills and industry levels.
- Supplementing Ageing Workforce
Over the last 10-15 years companies have sometimes not invested enough in recruitment or training and with an ageing workforce, apprenticeships are a very cost effective way of introducing new talent to the business.
- Higher Quality of Work
Apprentices have high quality training and are continually monitored throughout their programme either by the production of written work or by a series of work based practical assessments. This ensures a high quality of work that is in line with current industry practice.
- Increased Staff Retention
Employers may believe that if you train an apprentice that they will leave as soon as they have finished their training. Research shows that an apprentice is not only more likely to stay, but is very likely to be promoted within the organisation.
- Increased Competitiveness
Highly trained staff with the correct skills will improve the competitiveness of your business.
- Potential For Career Progression
Many apprenticeship programmes lead on to an Advanced Apprenticeship Scheme; this develops existing skills and includes several management units. It is an excellent way of training the managers of the future for your business.
- Partnership Working
An apprenticeship is a close working partnership between the college, the apprentice and the employer. The college ensures that the employer is kept up to date on progress and can concentrate on those areas that employers feel there may be any perceived weakness.
You may find the following websites useful:
www.apprenticeships.org
www.employersforapprentices.gov.uk
To find out more about apprenticeships contact us by:
Email: Linda.hope@capel.ac.uk
Tel: 08456 122 122 extension 181/119
Capel Manor College
Bullsmoor Lane, Enfield, Middlesex EN1 4RQ
Tel: 08456 122 122
