What is National Apprenticeship Week?
The week of 6th – 12th February marked the 16th annual National Apprenticeship Week. The official website which supports the celebration explains the purpose of having this week, “The week brings together businesses and apprentices across the country to shine a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships make to individuals, businesses and the wider economy”. Every year the celebration has a specific theme and for National Apprenticeship Week 2023 the theme is “Skills For Life”, again the official website expands on this and asks us to consider, “how apprenticeships can help individuals to develop the skills and knowledge required for a rewarding career, and businesses to develop a talented workforce that is equipped with future-ready skills”. It is important for businesses to recognise that over time the skills and knowledge of their staff will need to be developed in line with changes in how their business operates or advances in processes and technology. Lifelong learning therefore is crucial and apprenticeships can play an important role in supporting employers.
What Is An Apprenticeship?
When you hear the word “apprentice” you might stereotypically think of one of two things. Images of either Alan Sugar pointing across a boardroom table and telling another no hoper “you’re fired!”, or a young person starting out in the world of work who is sent for a long stand or a tin or tartan paint will pop into your head. The reality though is very different. Yes, apprentices are often young people starting their career but with various levels of apprenticeship which offer a wide range of skills and qualifications many apprentices are now already working and are looking to upskill and advance their knowledge and professional development through an apprenticeship. Apprenticeships combine practical hands on work with training and study with the aim of achieving a set of prescribed standards. Apprenticeships are available at a number of different levels as the table below taken from Become an apprentice: How apprenticeships work – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) shows:
Levels Of Apprenticeship
Apprenticeships have equivalent educational levels
| Level | Equivalent educational level | |
| Intermediate | 2 | GCSE |
| Advanced | 3 | A Level |
| Higher | 4, 5, 6 and 7 | Foundation degree and above |
| Degree | 6 and 7 | Bachelor’s or master’s degree |
Some apprenticeships may also give you an additional qualification, such as a diploma.
The government has also recently launched the new T Level qualification which is equivalent to 3 A Levels and can then lead on to an accelerated apprenticeship, more information can be found at T Levels: industry placements (education.gov.uk)
How Does An Apprentice Benefit A Business?
Employing an apprentice can bring numerous benefits to a business. Apprentices who are new to the world of work are keen, eager to learn and if they are placed in the right environment and right culture they will take on everything around them, they will flourish and become a real ambassador for your business. Apprentices bring with them new ideas, awareness of new trends, techniques and technologies through the experiences and learning they are exposed to with their training provider and that can help a business to look at things differently and to innovate. Having an apprentice at a junior level can also open up an opportunity for existing staff as someone will need to manage, mentor and support the apprentice. This presents a great chance for aspiring managers to fill that role and develop their own skills. As already mentioned apprenticeships aren’t just for young people, they are a cost effective way to upskill your current staff and provide a great return on investment. Apprenticeships are a viable alternative to other methods of recruitment and if you look at the future needs of your business and succession planning then apprenticeships can help your business to ensure that you have a pipeline of suitably skilled and qualified staff. By working with local schools, colleges and other training providers your business is expanding its reach. Your business can also build relationships and partnerships with these organisations which can lead to further opportunities for growth and development. Employing an apprentice and creating work opportunities for local young people can contribute to your organisation’s reputation within the community. Your business can inspire people to realise their potential, can create realistic aspirations and help you to become an employer of choice.
What Next?
To understand more about apprenticeships, the range of qualifications available, funding and how they can work for your business there is a wealth of information available at Apprenticeships.
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