Expert Opinion: What are the benefits of apprentices in the workplace?

As part of National Apprenticeship Week 2024, Stockport’s Hallidays HR outline the benefits that apprentices can bring to a business.

National Apprenticeship Week 2024 runs from Monday 5 to Sunday 11 February. The theme for National Apprenticeship Week 2024 is “Skills for Life”. We encourage everyone to consider how apprenticeships can help individuals to develop the skills and knowledge required for a rewarding career, and employers to develop a workforce with future ready skills.

Apprenticeship Week is an important initiative that aims to raise awareness and promote the benefits of apprenticeships in the workplace. It provides a platform to showcase the value of apprenticeship programs in developing a skilled workforce and driving economic growth. Apprenticeship Week plays a crucial role in fostering collaboration between employers, training providers, and apprentices, ultimately contributing to the development of a highly skilled and productive workforce in the UK.

So, what are the benefits of Apprentices in the workplace?

Skills development: Apprenticeships provide an opportunity for businesses to develop a skilled workforce tailored to their specific needs. By offering on-the-job training and mentorship, apprentices can acquire the skills and knowledge required for their roles, ensuring they contribute effectively to the business.

Increased productivity: As apprentices gain experience and proficiency in their roles, they can contribute to increased productivity within the workplace. Their fresh perspectives and enthusiasm can lead to innovative ideas and approaches, enhancing overall efficiency and output.

Cost-effective recruitment: Hiring and training new employees can be costly. Apprenticeships offer a cost-effective solution as they often come with lower wage requirements compared to hiring experienced workers. Employing apprentices allows businesses to invest in training and development while benefiting from their contributions at a more affordable cost.

Loyalty and retention: Apprentices often feel valued and supported by their employers, leading to increased loyalty and retention rates. By investing in their development, businesses can foster a sense of loyalty and commitment among apprentices, reducing turnover and the associated costs of recruitment and training.

Diverse perspectives and fresh ideas: Apprentices bring diverse perspectives and fresh ideas to the workplace. As they learn and grow, they can offer unique insights and contribute to a more dynamic and innovative work environment. Their different backgrounds and experiences can help businesses adapt to changing market demands and stay competitive.

Succession planning: Apprenticeships provide an opportunity for businesses to mentor and develop their future workforce. By investing in apprentices, employers can identify and nurture talented individuals who can eventually take on more senior roles within the company, ensuring a smooth succession planning process.

Overall, employing apprentices can lead to skills development, increased productivity, cost-effectiveness, loyalty, diverse perspectives, and succession planning. By embracing apprenticeships, businesses can create a positive and thriving work environment while investing in the future of their workforce.

So, how do you get started and what do you need to consider?

Explore Funding Options: Apprenticeship training costs vary between programmes and funding bands. Employers with a payroll of more than £3 million pay the apprenticeship levy and use the funds to cover apprenticeship training costs.

All other employers will pay 5% of total training costs through the process of co-investment, with the government paying the remaining amount. Small employers with less than 50 employees can get full training costs funded for young apprentices.

If you want to find out what funding you may be eligible for, get in touch and we can help you find out.

Approved Apprenticeship Agreement: As with a contract of employment, you are required to outline the terms and conditions of the apprenticeship program. There are many key aspects that need to be covered in an apprenticeship standard agreement.

It’s also important to note that apprenticeship standard agreements may vary depending on the specific apprenticeship program and the requirements set by the relevant apprenticeship authority or governing body.

We can assist with creating a legally compliant Apprenticeship Agreement tailored to your business.

Find an Apprenticeship Training Provider: You will need find a training provider that delivers the programme. At this stage, an apprenticeship provider should give you expert help and guidance for setting up your programme.

Overall, you’ll need to select your provider based on training coverage, quality of delivery and curriculum, and reputation.