It’s time for your business to think differently about apprenticeships

As part of #NAW2022, we are busting top myths about employing apprentices to encourage local employers to think differently about how they use them. How many did you think were true?

#1 Apprenticeships aren’t relevant to my industry or my business

Apprenticeships are an exciting option for almost every industry. Whilst traditionally apprenticeships started in industries such as engineering and trade, they now span a whole host of sectors including cyber and IT, marketing, dental nursing, HR and management.

Even if your business isn’t thinking in this way - more and more talented people are! Increasing numbers of people want to earn qualifications whilst working. Businesses who provide them with opportunities are the ones who will attract this talent.

In all industries, apprentices are proven to boost morale and productivity to teams and offer a fresh perspective. They bring the latest knowledge and skills from their studies into their organisations.

#2 Apprenticeships are only for young people

One of the common misconceptions about apprenticeships is that they are only for young people. However, it’s not true as there is no upper age limit. If you are already in employment, apprenticeships can be a great way to upskill, gain industry-recognised qualifications or even to take a completely new career direction within your organisation.

#3 University graduates can’t do an apprenticeship

So long as the apprenticeship is not in the same area as their university studies, university graduates can absolutely undertake an apprenticeship to further their education. We get lots of university graduates applying for apprenticeships to get their foot in the door with local employers.

#4 Apprentices don’t stay with their employer once they are qualified

 The vast majority of apprentices stay on with their employer after their apprenticeship finishes. Many apprentices choose to move onto the next level of training to help them progress into more senior roles within their company. Read how Finley Walker has completed his Level 4 Software Tester apprenticeship with Renishaw and has been kept on as a valuable member of the team.

#5 Apprenticeships aren’t for current employees

We work with many organisations who use apprenticeships to upskill and retrain their existing workforce. This can be for a number of reasons including to:

• fill key skill gaps in their business
• boost employee motivation by investing in their development
• improve employee retention rates

Experienced employees may be keen to get formal qualifications in their specialist area, or perhaps may simply have the drive to learn something new and progress into a different role. Hear from Danielle Cull, an HR apprentice at Trelleborg Sealing Solutions, who retrained in HR after 11 years in Finance and learn how the apprenticeship supports her professional ambitions.

Recruit apprentices for your business with Gloucestershire College

Awarded ‘Gloucestershire’s Apprenticeship Training Provider of the Year 2020 and 2021,’ Gloucestershire College is committed to delivering excellence for our apprentices and employers. Our Employer Training & Apprenticeships team will listen to your needs and requirements and advise on the right training programmes for your business. Contact our team today to find out more via: employer.training@gloscol.ac.uk or call: 01452 563400.