The Right Track Consultancy
Building tomorrow’s workforce: how apprenticeships could engage a generation
Generation Z (born between 1997 and 2012) is set to make up 25% of the global workforce by the end of this year. A generation characterised by its tech-savvy nature, a
Helen Russell Director The Right Track Consultancy
strong sense of social responsibility and appetite for learning, off ers a tremendous opportunity for businesses aiming to create a pipeline of future talent for ongoing success growth. Apprenticeship schemes that continue to evolve, and be a cornerstone of the UK’s skills strategy, were a key focus in the Labour Party’s manifesto in 2024, providing a critical pathway to harnessing Gen Z’s potential while addressing the evolving demands of the labour market. With National Apprenticeship Week taking place from
February 10, now is the perfect time to consider what benefi ts apprenticeships could bring to your business.
The role of apprenticeships in shaping the workforce Apprenticeships are a recognised educational pathway from the age of 16, comprising of a structured method of combining work with formal learning, leading to recognised qualifi cations. From Level 2 through to Level 7, with over 600 approved Apprenticeships Standards, apprenticeships are underpinned by Skills, Knowledge and Behaviours (SKB), concentrating on building knowledge and competency over a period of time.
T ey incorporate a mandatory 20% off -the-job learning,
meaning for the fi rst time there is a real focus on both the employer and the apprentice investing in real time to allow the apprentice to learn either at college, university or online as well as through work-related learning activities activities including shadowing, attending meetings, in-house training and other workplace opportunities. Programmes culminate in an accredited recognised
trade test – known as the End Point Assessment – ensuring apprentices are equipped not only with technical expertise but also with the soft skills and behaviours essential for workplace success to the required standard set by a range of industries. ■ Skills: the skills component focuses on practical competencies required to perform specific tasks effectively. For instance, an apprentice in digital marketing will learn to analyse campaign metrics, use analytics tools, and optimise social media strategies, building confi dence and profi ciency.
■ Knowledge: complements practical skills by providing the theoretical understanding necessary for a role. For example, engineering apprentices gain insights into materials science and systems design, which support their on-the-job learning. By engaging in structured learning, apprentices can contextualise their experi- ences and make informed decisions.
■ Behaviours: the behaviours outlined in apprenticeship standards are critical for long-term employability. Traits such as resilience, teamwork, adaptability and ethical practice are embedded into the learning journey. T ese qualities align closely with the values Gen Z brings to the workplace, creating a collaborative relationship between the apprentice and the business.
ALL THINGS BUSINESS | 22
EDUCATION
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