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Training Development


Inspiring the next forwarder generation


BIFA has designed a useful guide to help Members navigate the apprenticeship landscape


Following the approval of the industry’s new International Freight Forwarding standard four months ago, we have received numerous enquiries from Members regarding apprenticeships.


With the main cohort of students beginning the new standard this September, and even more set to join the industry in the coming months, we thought it would be a good idea to produce a handy guide to help simplify the recruitment process. Carl Hobbis, Training and Development Manager at BIFA, explains more…


First of all, what has the initial response been like from Members? Great! We realise that some of our Members are already very clued up when it comes to hiring an apprentice. However, for others the process may seem like a minefield. Since the approval, I have received at least one enquiry every day, generally from Members asking for help. It has been really refreshing, confirming that the appetite for apprenticeships is there, and we want to help encourage more Members to consider taking on a student and prove that the process does not have to be complicated.


Why is this important? Firstly, and in simple terms, the Institute for Apprenticeships will be monitoring the numbers. We have set a target of 1,000 each year from 2020, and as we have around 1,500 Members, this is achievable. The institute is also realistic and knows this will take gradual effect. Secondly, we need a collective effort to


promote the industry, as we do not have the resource to do this solely at BIFA. Virtually all the apprentices I speak to are really enjoying working within the sector, so I urge every BIFA Member to get out there in their local community and promote the industry as a potential career option to more young people. When looking to promote the industry, your


first reaction will probably be to contact schools and colleges, and if you can get in with one, that is great. It is not always that easy though, so broaden your horizons and consider a community group, sports club, etc – you will probably get quicker results that way. In real terms, this probably means giving up a couple of hours, once a year, which in my opinion is not a lot a lot to ask when you think how much added value an


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apprentice could bring to your business. This activity will also add to your corporate social responsibility programme and you are marketing your company at the same time – win, win!


What is BIFA doing to support its Members? Alongside this booklet, we have also started to create a range of marketing assets, including videos with apprentices, infographics, presentations, case studies plus a variety of other useful items that Members can take with them to events – most are available to download from our website for free.


It goes without saying, that Members can contact me direct for any help or advice as well.


How is BIFA getting involved in the delivery of the apprenticeship programme? Although we are not managing the 18-month programme – a training provider or an apprenticeship training agency will do this – virtually all providers are outsourcing some of the technical training to us to deliver, such as the introductory course. Many providers are also embedding our Customs BTEC course as well, meaning apprentices will get a BTEC built-into their training, which is superb news. New apprenticeship reforms state that all students must complete an end-point assessment to complete their qualification, and the Trailblazer group has nominated BIFA as the quality assurance organisation of this assessment process. We have lots of other initiatives planned to support Members and training providers throughout the recruitment process and to make the industry more attractive for young people, so watch this space!


If you want to contact Carl, he can be reached by email at c.hobbis@bifa.org


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September 2018


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