Apprenticeship incentive payment scheme extended for employers

Back in July, the government announced new incentive payments for employers to encourage the recruitment of new apprentices. Originally planned to end on 31 January 2021, the incentive payments have now been extended to 31 March 2021.

Any business who hires a new apprentice aged 16 to 24-years-old between now and the end of March will receive an incentive payment of £2,000, plus a further £1,000 if the apprentice is aged 16 to 18-years-old. For new apprentices aged 25-years-old or over, employers will receive £1,500.

This means with a maximum of £3,000 available for each new apprentice hired, if you have been considering taking on new talent for your business, now is the time to do it.

What is an apprenticeship?

Apprentices are full-time employees who work alongside other staff members whilst gaining job-specific skills. Apprenticeships allow anyone aged 16 or above to build the skills and knowledge needed in their chosen career path and will also lead to nationally recognised qualifications. Ranging from entry to degree level, there is no limit to what can be achieved through an apprenticeship.

What is required from employers?

• Full-time employment of the apprentice for the duration of their apprenticeship
• National apprenticeship minimum wage must be paid to any apprentice hired
• 20% off the job training – this could be day release, block delivery in college or online training depending on the apprenticeship programme

What are the benefits for employers?

• Receive an incentive payment from the government of up to £3,000 for each new apprentice hired before 31 March 2021
• Gain a loyal and enthusiastic employee who will bring fresh new talent and ideas into your organisation
• Shape the development of apprentices to meet the needs of your business as they grow and train
• Apprenticeships are a great way to build the talent pipeline of your organisation and fill skill gaps

To recruit an apprentice and claim up to £3,000 get in touch with our Business Hub team at Gloucestershire College

Hiring an apprentice is the same as hiring an employee. Employers have the final say on who they recruit and the team at Gloucestershire College can even help you advertise the vacancy for free.

Our Business Hub team can offer no-obligation advice and help your business to maximise the funding on offer. We are specialists at helping businesses to fill skill gaps and build their talent pipeline for the future.

We have talented applicants apply to us all year round looking for positions, so if you are looking to recruit, get in touch with our Business Hub team today via: business.hub@gloscol.ac.uk.

Visit:gloscol.ac.uk/professional-training to view our range of apprenticeship programmes and courses for businesses at Gloucestershire College.