As a small business owner, you may have heard about the benefits of implementing an apprenticeship scheme in your company. But with so many options and considerations, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. In this article, we will explore the advantages of apprenticeships and provide guidance on how to set up a successful scheme for your small business.

Firstly, let’s define what an apprenticeship is. An apprenticeship is a work-based training program that combines on-the-job learning with classroom instruction. It allows individuals to gain practical skills and knowledge in a specific industry while earning a wage. Apprenticeships are available in a wide range of sectors, from traditional trades such as plumbing and carpentry to more modern fields like digital marketing and IT.

So, is an apprenticeship scheme right for your business? The short answer is yes. Apprenticeships offer numerous benefits for both the apprentice and the employer. For the apprentice, it provides a valuable opportunity to learn and develop new skills, gain hands-on experience, and earn a wage at the same time. For the employer, it can bring fresh perspectives and ideas to the business, increase productivity, and help fill skills gaps within the company.

Now that we have established the advantages of apprenticeships, let’s delve into how you can set up a scheme for your small business. The first step is to identify the skills and roles that you want to offer through the apprenticeship. Consider the needs of your business and the tasks that an apprentice could assist with. It’s also essential to think about the long-term goals of your company and how an apprentice could contribute to achieving them.

Next, you will need to find a training provider to deliver the apprenticeship. The training provider will work with you to develop a tailored program that meets the specific needs of your business. They will also handle the recruitment process, which includes advertising the apprenticeship, shortlisting candidates, and conducting interviews. This can save you time and resources, allowing you to focus on running your business.

Once you have selected a training provider and recruited your apprentice, it’s time to set up the apprenticeship agreement. This is a legally binding contract between you, the apprentice, and the training provider, outlining the terms and conditions of the apprenticeship. It will include details such as the length of the apprenticeship, the training and assessment plan, and the wage that the apprentice will receive.

As an employer, you will be responsible for paying the apprentice’s wage, which is set at a minimum of £4.30 per hour for apprentices under 19 or in the first year of their apprenticeship. However, many employers choose to pay more to attract top talent and show their commitment to investing in their apprentices’ development.

Throughout the apprenticeship, the training provider will support both the apprentice and the employer. They will provide classroom instruction and on-the-job training, assess the apprentice’s progress, and offer guidance and advice. It’s essential to maintain regular communication with the training provider to ensure that the apprenticeship is running smoothly and address any concerns that may arise.

Finally, upon completion of the apprenticeship, the apprentice will receive a nationally recognized qualification, and you will have a skilled and qualified employee who is familiar with your business and its processes. Many employers choose to offer their apprentices a permanent position within the company, providing a sense of job security and loyalty.

In conclusion, setting up an apprenticeship scheme at your small business can bring numerous benefits, from developing a skilled workforce to increasing productivity and filling skills gaps. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a successful apprenticeship program that will benefit both your business and the apprentice. So, don’t hesitate to take the first step towards investing in the future of your company and the next generation of workers.