While many apprenticeships may have taken a different shape this year, apprentices have continued to play an essential role in supporting businesses to adapt and build through challenging times.
In fact, some industries, including digital, data and technology, have even seen a rise in the number of apprenticeships within in the sector, as businesses look to develop in new areas and cope with increasing demand.
Here in Tees Valley, apprentices are playing an increasingly important role in local industry, helping to meet the needs of a growing and rapidly changing economy.
We all know the importance of the role apprenticeships play in building the confidence, skills, and knowledge of individuals, but what about the benefits an apprentice could bring to your business?
Here are 5 reasons why training and investing in an apprentice could be the next step to unlocking your business growth potential…
- Fill existing skills gaps within your business
Investing in an apprentice can also be a smart way of investing in your business.
According to apprenticeships.gov.uk, 86% of employers said apprenticeships helped them to develop skills relevant to their organisation.
The flexibility of apprenticeships means that you can adapt your apprentice’s training to meet the needs of your business.
Is a digital skills gap within your workforce holding back development? Or perhaps there is new technology your business could tap into? Taking on an apprentice could help you fill these gaps, take advantage of business growth opportunities, and boost productivity.
- Gain a fresh perspective with new insights and ideas
Apprentices can bring new ways of thinking and fresh ideas to a role – a valuable asset for any business.
From young people taking their first steps in the world of work, to those wanting to develop in their current roles, to those looking to change direction completely, apprentices of all ages are charged with motivation and enthusiasm to learn new skills.
In fact, 78% of employers said apprenticeships helped them improve productivity.
- Easy and straightforward recruitment
If you’re looking to grow your team, taking on an apprentice is a great recruitment option – helping you find high quality candidates alongside tailored training packages.
Working with a training provider, or advertising directly, you will be presented with high quality candidates to choose from and take to interview. Giving your chosen candidate a trial will allow you to see how an apprentice works in your team, and what level of skill they can bring to your business.
Recruitment is simple and straightforward, and there is plenty of support available to help you navigate the process.
- Upskill and revitalise your workforce
Apprentices don’t have to be hired from outside your business – you could choose to upskill an existing employee.
Learning new skills or taking a different career direction could revitalise current team members with a renewed sense of purpose, motivation and wellbeing.
- Tap into business growth funding and support
Tees Valley Combined Authority is offering a Support Grant for new apprenticeship starts in Tees Valley. The grants of up to £3,000 are to assist employers who are committed to creating new apprenticeships or progressing their existing apprentice onto a higher level of apprenticeship.
If your business is based in Darlington, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar & Cleveland or Stockton-on-Tees, and is considering taking on an apprentice, you can find out more by clicking here.
This National Apprenticeship Week 2021 (8 – 14 February) is the ideal time to find out more about the benefits for businesses here in Tees Valley…
If you are a business interested in apprenticeships, you can find out more about our Tees Valley Apprenticeship Support Grant by clicking here.
