More young people than ever before are considering apprenticeships, with over 54% looking at it as their first choice.

However, not enough SME’s are aware of the benefits apprenticeships can bring. From increased productivity, staff morale and investing in a future workforce, we can bring you 10 reasons why your business should think about hiring an apprentice.

1.) Combine Education & Training

With worrying factors entering the frame such as rising education costs and a highly competitive job market, young people are looking for an alternative. Apprenticeships combine education, training and guaranteed employment for the trainee and allow employers access to the best talent.

2.) There Will Always Be Businesses In Need

Apprenticeships cover a lot more roles than you think. They can span over 170 industries and cover 1,5000 roles nuclear all the way to advertising. It’s unlikely you won’t be able to find an apprentice to fulfil a need.

3.) The Small Business Hotline

If your business is under 250 employees, the National Apprentice Scheme (NAS) has a small business team that you can seek help from. The NAS small business team will assist in how to decide develop and deliver through the recruitment process of hiring the right apprentice.

4.) Tailor Apprenticeships

All apprentice schemes have set content, but you are able to add additional content to tailor the training to your specific business requirements.

5.) Working With A Training Organisation (College or Training Provider)

The training organisation you have liaised with advertise your apprenticeship vacancies, support you through recruitment process and then deliver training/regular feedback on your apprentices’ performance.

6.) Gives You The Chance To Develop Needed Skills

When staff are developed from an early age, it ensures they can be educated and trained to a high level. This control in helping mould the skills of a workforce is increasing in appeal in today’s job market.

7.) Noticeable Benefits For Your Business

96% of employers have reported benefits in their business whether it be improved products/services, fresh ideas being introduced or even increased morale amongst staff.

8.) Apprentices Make Your Business More Productive

72% of businesses report that apprentices increase productivity monetary wise by £214 per week.

9.) Cost-Effective

Apprenticeships are cost-effective for your business, with funding and training available depending on the job role and the age of your apprentice.

For apprentices aged 24 & over undertaking an Advanced or Higher Level Apprenticeship, they are now eligible for an Advanced Learning Loan, thus reducing costs for the employers.

10.) Apprenticeship Grants Are Available

An apprenticeship grant of up to £1,500 per apprentice is available from the National Service for Businesses (if your company is under 1,000 employees and the subject hasn’t started an apprenticeship within the last 12 months).

Thanks to this ‘AGE 16-24 grant’, more than 35,000 extra young people have been able to start an apprenticeship.

Any Business Would Benefit From Hiring An Apprentice – It Could Be Yours!

With lower upfront hiring costs, the ability to mould an employee in your vision and financial assistance, it’s no wonder why more companies than ever before are taking on young apprentices.

At careermap we have a wealth of apprenticeships available across a whole range of industries, so why not get in touch with us if you have any queries.