Why hiring an apprentice is a smart move for your business
Apprenticeships aren’t just a great opportunity for individuals starting their careers; they’re also a brilliant investment for businesses of all shapes and sizes. Whether you're a small company looking to grow or a larger organisation wanting to future-proof your workforce, apprenticeships offer real, long-term value.
At IPS International, we work with businesses across Kent and the South East to help them recruit, train and develop apprentices who go on to make a real difference in their industries. So, if you’ve ever wondered, “What’s in it for me as an employer?”, you’re in the right place.
In this blog, we’ll break down the key benefits of hiring apprentices, explore how it can impact your bottom line and show you how IPS International makes the process simple and rewarding.
What is an apprentice and why should you hire one?
An apprentice is someone who works while learning. They split their time between on-the-job training and off-the-job learning, developing real-world experience alongside qualifications. But more than just being a learning opportunity for the individual, apprenticeships are a powerful tool for businesses. Here’s why:
The business benefits of hiring an apprentice
1. Fill skills gaps and shape your future workforce
Many industries are facing ongoing skills shortages, and finding the right talent can be tough. Hiring an apprentice means you’re growing your workforce whilst training someone in the exact skills, processes, and values your business needs.
Rather than relying solely on recruitment (which can be expensive and time-consuming), apprenticeships give you the chance to:
Develop a pipeline of skilled workers
Upskill existing staff in new areas
Build loyalty and retain knowledge in-house
Think of it as long-term workforce planning with a personal touch.
2. Fresh perspective and new ideas
Apprentices bring a fresh pair of eyes to your team. They’re learning the latest theory and practices as they study and often bring in new energy, creativity, and ideas that can benefit your business.
Whether it’s a new approach to digital marketing or a modern take on business administration, apprentices can breathe life into your processes and encourage innovation.
3. Cost-effective hiring
Let’s talk money. Apprenticeships are one of the most cost-effective ways to grow your team. Here’s why:
Apprentices are paid a lower wage while they train (in line with the national minimum apprentice wage for the first year and under 19 years old)
Government funding is available to cover training costs
There are often incentives available for hiring apprentices (especially for SMEs)
At IPS International, we’ll walk you through what funding and financial support you’re eligible for so you can make the most of your investment.
4. Boost staff morale and loyalty
Introducing apprentices into your business can be a great motivator for your existing team. Mentoring an apprentice gives staff the opportunity to share their skills and develop leadership abilities, while creating a culture of learning and progression.
Plus, when apprentices feel supported and valued, they’re more likely to stay with your company, meaning better retention and less time spent hiring again in the future.
5. Improve productivity and performance
It’s a common myth that apprentices are more of a drain than a gain. In fact, many employers find that their apprentices start contributing meaningfully to the business much quicker than expected.
With the right training, support and structure, apprentices can help your business run more smoothly, efficiently, and effectively.
6. Tailored training that meets your needs
One of the biggest benefits of apprenticeships is how flexible and tailored they can be. At IPS International, we work with you to:
Understand your business goals
Select the right apprenticeship standard
Find an apprentice through recruitment (or train an existing staff member)
Deliver relevant, practical training that aligns with your industry
You’re not buying an off-the-shelf solution, you’re building a partnership that fits your business.
Who can be an apprentice?
Another common misconception is that apprenticeships are just for school-leavers. Not true! Apprenticeships are available to anyone aged 16 and over, including existing staff who want to develop new skills or move into a different role (however, they must have little to no knowledge in the sector).
This means you can use apprenticeships to:
Bring in fresh talent
Upskill existing staff
Support long-term employees to retrain or progress
It’s all about developing the people you already have, or welcoming new ones who can grow with your business.
Working with IPS International: how we support employers
We know that taking on an apprentice might feel like a big step, but that’s where we come in.
At IPS International, we’ve been supporting employers and apprentices across Kent and the South East for over 35 years. We make the process smooth, supportive, and tailored to your business needs.
Here’s how we help:
Expert Advice: We’ll help you choose the right apprenticeship standard and funding route
Recruitment Support: Need help finding the right candidate? We will advertise and pre-screen applicants for you
Dedicated Business Engagement Consultant: Your go-to contact for anything apprenticeship-related
Quality Training Delivery: Delivered by experienced trainers with real-world industry experience
Progress Reviews and Feedback: Regular updates and support for you and your apprentice
A business that’s grown with apprentices: case study from one of our employer partners
Bringing apprentices into the business has been key to our long-term talent development. As we continue to grow month by month, our production capacity keeps increasing and apprentices have played a big part in making that possible. Their contribution gives us the ability and confidence to take on more as a manufacturing company.
If you’re thinking about taking on an apprentice, our advice is simple: do it. Yes, it’s a commitment and one that needs nurturing, but it’s an investment in your future. Supporting apprentices means you’re building the skills and knowledge your business will rely on for years to come.
How to get started with apprenticeships
If you're ready to explore how apprenticeships can support your business, the best place to start is with a conversation. At IPS International, we’ll listen to your needs and talk you through:
What apprenticeships are available
Which funding you may be entitled to
How to recruit, train and retain apprentices
How we’ll support you throughout the process
No jargon, no pressure; just friendly, expert advice.
Final thoughts: Invest in your future workforce
Hiring an apprentice isn’t just about filling a vacancy, it’s about building something bigger. It’s about investing in people, nurturing talent and strengthening your business from the inside out.
Whether you want to bring in new energy or grow your existing team, apprenticeships are a smart, sustainable solution. And with the right training partner by your side, it’s easier than you might think.
Let’s Work Together
If you’re interested in hiring an apprentice or want to find out how apprenticeships could work for your business, we’re here to help.
Email: [email protected]
Call: 01634 298808