training 13
New apprenticeship grant set to benefit SMEs
With a growing range of apprenticeship courses and funding available, more and more businesses of all sizes are realising the benefits of apprenticeships. And with a new government initiative to help employers take on their first apprentice, the opportunities for businesses and young people look set to grow
Until March 2013, up to 40,000 apprenticeship grants (with a value of £1,500) are available for eligible small to medium employers who commit to employ between one and three 16-24 year old apprentices for the first time. The new grant is available to employers with less than 250 employees in all industries and all apprenticeship levels.
Neil Peters, commercial director at East Berkshire College, explains: “Apprenticeships are becoming increasingly important. They give young people the chance to gain job-specific skills and work experience, while enabling companies to develop new talent and address skills gaps.
“Whether recruiting a new individual or developing a current employee, apprenticeships are a great cost-effective way for businesses to develop their workforce, keep pace with the latest technology and practices, increase staff retention and improve
productivity. What is more, full funding is available for 16-18 year old apprentices and generally there is no fee charged to their employer.
“At East Berkshire College, we support the employer and the apprentice. We have over 35 years of experience in delivering high-quality training and our free apprentice matching service ensures businesses find the right individual and vice versa.”
Though traditionally associated with trades like construction, apprenticeships are now available for an array of industries and have been specifically designed to meet business needs. As well as the more traditional trade-based apprenticeships, East Berkshire College is now offering a wide range of apprenticeships in areas including IT, business & administration, accounting, dental nursing and hospitality & catering.
Alan Cutler, training manager (airports) at Babcock International Group
New higher apprenticeships are also available to meet employers’ needs for higher level skills and offer individuals an alternative to university. These programmes lead to a higher qualification such as a HNC, HND or Foundation Degree. Like intermediate and advanced apprenticeships, they combine training at college with practical skills learnt in the workplace.
Alan Cutler, training manager (airports) at Babcock International Group, is a big advocate of apprenticeships. He explains: “Apprenticeships have certainly been a factor in retaining and growing our business. The college provides regular feedback on our apprentices and tailors the training to our needs, as well as those of the individual.”
Details: 01753-443855
www.eastberks.ac.uk
THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE – THAMES VALLEY – SEPTEMBER 2012
www.businessmag.co.uk
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