Apprenticeship Guide for Employers: What You Need to Know Before Hiring an Apprentice
Hiring an apprentice can be a game-changer for your business. Not only do you get the chance to mould fresh talent to meet the specific needs of your company, but you also contribute to the growth and development of the future workforce. But where do you begin? What do you need to know before bringing an apprentice on board?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to consider when hiring an apprentice. Whether you're new to the idea or already exploring your options, we’ll cover the key benefits, legal requirements, costs, training options, and more. By the end, you'll have a clear picture of how apprenticeships can work for your business and how to get started.
What is an Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a work-based training programme where apprentices split their time between working in your business and receiving training. This training can be in person or remote but it’s completely dependent on the apprenticeship. The apprenticeship will be structured to allow them to gain practical experience and theoretical knowledge to ensure they become a valuable team member.
Apprenticeships come in many forms, from Level 2 to degree level. They also vary in length and can typically last from one to four years depending on the level of apprenticeship.
Why Hire an Apprentice?
If you’re considering hiring an apprentice but unsure if it’s right, then let the benefits speak for themselves. So, let’s break it down:
New Ideas and a fresh perspective – Brining in an apprentice will bring new ideas. With their training, you can help to mould them for your business, and they will bring industry trends and ideas forward for your business.
Tailored Training – A massive benefit is getting to tailor what they learn. By taking on an apprenticeship you can help them to understand what is most useful for your business. Making the individual more tailored to your business needs.
Boost Productivity – Studies have shown apprentices can boost productivity. As apprentices develop their skills and confidence, they start to take on more responsibility. This helps other members of the team, freeing up team members to focus on other tasks.
Positive Company Image – By offering apprentices you position yourself as a forward-thinking business that is committed to empowering the next generation. This can enhance your reputation and make you more attractive to potential employers and partnering businesses.
Loyal Employees – When you invest in an apprentice, they are more likely to stay with your company long-term. Apprentices gain a deep understanding of your business and form strong ties making them more likely to stay as they feel valued.
Legal Requirements
As with any employment arrangement, there are some legal obligations you need to meet when hiring an apprentice. Understanding these requirements from the start will help you avoid any pitfalls and ensure a smooth hiring process.
Employment Contract
Apprentices are employees of your company, which means they need a proper employment contract. This contract should detail the terms of their employment, including working hours, pay, and their rights as an employee. Additionally, it should outline the expectations for their training, including both the on-the-job training and off-the-job learning provided by your chosen training provider.
Minimum Wage
Apprentices must be paid at least the National Minimum Wage for apprentices. This wage is typically lower than for regular employees, but it increases as the apprentice ages or completes the first year of their program. Keep in mind that paying apprentices fairly is key to keeping them and ensuring a motivated workforce.
Training and Development Time
As part of their apprenticeship, apprentices must spend at least 20% of their working hours in off-the-job training. This can include attending classes, completing online courses, or receiving mentorship and guidance from your team. It’s important to account for this time when planning the apprentice’s workload and ensuring they’re able to complete their training successfully.
Costs and Funding Options
Employers often worry about the costs of hiring an apprentice, but there’s good news: there is government funding available to help cover some of the expenses. The funding you receive will depend on the size of your business.
The Apprenticeship Levy
For large employers with a wage bill over £3 million per year, there’s the Apprenticeship Levy. This is a government initiative that requires you to contribute 0.5% of your payroll to fund apprenticeships. You can then use these funds to cover the costs of apprenticeship training for your employees.
Funding for Small Employers
If your business doesn’t pay the Apprenticeship Levy, you can still receive financial support. The government co-invests, covering 95% of the training and assessment costs, while you, as the employer, only need to contribute 5%. There are also incentives available for hiring apprentices under 25 or those with additional needs.
Additional Incentives
Sometimes, the government offers additional incentives to employers, such as bonuses for hiring younger apprentices or those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Be sure to check what current incentives are available when you’re considering taking on an apprentice.
Employer Responsibilities
As an employer, you’re responsible for ensuring that your apprentice has the right support and guidance to succeed. There will be a set of standards that are expected of both you and the apprentice. Here are some of the key responsibilities you’ll need to keep in mind:
Workplace Mentorship
Appoint a mentor or supervisor who will guide the apprentice through their on-the-job training. This person should be an experienced member of your team who can provide regular feedback and help the apprentice develop their skills.
Training Opportunities
Provide opportunities for the apprentice to apply what they’re learning. This could involve rotating through different departments, working on specific projects, or taking part in training workshops. It important that they have the time to work on the spcific things they are learning so time must be allocated to these areas first.
Performance Reviews
Regularly assess the apprentice’s progress, both in terms of their work and their studies. This will help ensure they’re on track to complete their apprenticeship successfully and meet the standards of the program.
Recruitment Process
Recruiting an apprentice follows a similar process to hiring any employee. You’ll need to advertise the apprenticeship vacancy, review applications, conduct interviews, and select the right candidate for the role.
When advertising the vacancy, make sure to highlight the skills and qualities you’re looking for, as well as the training and development opportunities your apprenticeship offers. At IPS we can help you with the recruitment process.
Career Development and Retention
Finally, it’s important to think about the long-term future of your apprentice. What happens when they complete their program? Ideally, you want to keep them as a full-time employee, so offering opportunities for career progression within your business is key.
Consider how you can help apprentices grow into more senior roles or move on to advanced apprenticeships. By showing that there’s a clear career path within your company, you’re more likely to keep talented apprentices on board for the long term.
Partnering with IPS
One of the essential steps in hiring an apprentice is partnering with a training provider. This is where IPS can support you. As an established provider of high-quality apprenticeship training, we ensure your apprentice receives the best training and skills development, tailored to meet the specific needs of the business.
At IPS International, we offer a wide range of apprenticeship programs, from Level 2 to Level 5, in areas such as administration, engineering, and digital marketing. Our experienced trainers work closely with you to understand your business requirements and ensure the apprenticeship aligns with your company’s goals.
As the employer, your role is to ensure the apprentice gains practical, on-the-job experience that aligns with what they’re learning in their coursework.
Training providers also play a crucial role in ensuring that both you and the apprentice meet the standards set by the apprenticeship framework or standard. They’ll regularly check in to make sure the apprentice is on track and may offer additional support if needed.
As you can see, hiring an apprentice has many benefits and can be a valuable investment for your business. With the right approach, apprenticeships can bring fresh ideas whilst being moulded for their role requirements.
Ready to take the next step and hire an apprentice? At IPS International LTD, we offer expert guidance and support. Contact us today at [email protected] or call us on 01634 298808.