Demystifying Apprenticeships with Employer Training & Apprenticeships at Gloucestershire College

With one of largest portfolios of apprenticeship programmes in the region, strong partnerships with over 1,200 local employers, and an outstanding team of business consultants, training coordinators, assessors and lecturers, Gloucestershire College offers 47 apprenticeship programmes covering engineering, construction, cyber, IT, hospitality, hair, business, professional services, dental nursing, education and early years. 

We have asked members of the Employer Training & Apprenticeships team to address some of the most common misconceptions about apprenticeships that they hear from local employers.

#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! Businesses who provide them with opportunities are the ones who will attract this talent.

“Have a chat with us first. We can give you all the details, so you can make an informed decision as to whether an apprentice is what you are looking for.” – Ellie Jevons, Senior Business & Apprenticeship Sales Executive (Construction & Building Services, Accounting, Marketing)  

 #2 Apprenticeships are only for young people

"Anyone who wants to upskill, retrain and gain relevant skills in a different career sector can become an apprentice.

“I train apprentices who are older, more experienced but looking to build on their existing skill set with a foundation of knowledge and a qualification that will spring board them to further opportunities. The apprenticeship allows them to continue their development within their current role but with a recognised qualification at the end of it.” – Dianne Baker, Assessor (Leadership and Management, Business Services)

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

“In our experience, approximately 9 out of 10 GC apprentices stay with their employer after they've completed their apprenticeship. I always tell employers who are considering recruiting a new apprentice or upskill their employees through an apprenticeship, that it is one of the best investments in the future success of their business. Apprentices often become your most loyal employees.” – Sian Pirone, Senior Business & Apprenticeship Sales Executive (Hospitality, Dental, Hair & Beauty, Motor, Early Years)

#4 Hiring an apprentice is expensive and time-consuming

“It is key to first understand the employer responsibilities, funding, eligibility and the processes of how to recruit an apprentice.

“For example, many employers are still unaware of the government funding available for apprenticeships, as well as funding for over 18 apprentices and if they are able to engage in an apprenticeship as a mature student.”

“As your training provider, Gloucestershire College will guide you through the process specific to your requirements and answer any questions that you may have. We even provide free recruitment service for employers looking to hire new talent.”– Sarah Thorne, Senior Business & Apprenticeship Sales Executive (Education, Local Authorities, Building Services and Housing Sectors)

#5 Apprenticeships aren’t for current employees

“Employers often forget that they can upskill their existing staff through apprenticeships rather than having to recruit new staff.

“We work with many organisations who use apprenticeships to upskill and retrain their existing workforce. This can be to fill key skill gaps in their business or boost employee motivation by investing in their development and improve employee retention rates.

“Experienced employees may be looking to gain formal qualifications in their specialist area, or they may want to completely change their career direction and re-train – anyone of any age has various training and development  options to pursue their dream career in.” – Jade Wilce,  Senior Business & Apprenticeship Sales Executive (Engineering, IT & Cyber)

As Gloucestershire’s Training Provider of the Year 2022 and a trusted partner of more than 1200 local companies, Gloucestershire College is committed to delivering excellence for our apprentices and employers. We understand the skills needs faced by industry sectors and offer apprenticeships, part-time and short courses in a wide range of areas. Our Employer Training & Apprenticeships team will listen to your needs and requirements and advise on the right training programmes for your business.