When should you recruit an apprentice?

We are often asked when is the best time to recruit an apprentice. The question is asked either my SME businesses or by those paying the apprenticeship levy. The answer is always the same, you can recruit at any time of the year but the end of August and beginning of September is the optimum time.

A Level and GCSE Results

A Level results were published last Thursday and GCSE results are due to be released tomorrow, 23rd August. At both these points, students will be considering their next steps. Many will be clear about staying in academia either by taking up university places or staying on at school. Many will also be clear that they want to become an apprentice. Others will be unsure but will quickly realise that a decision will have to be made.

Why become an apprentice?

Many school leavers will have considered university but are simply either done with full-time education or will be put off by the thought of being landed with huge debts before they start work. The expectation is that students will leave university almost £50k in debt.

Apprenticeships offer an alternative path that allows individuals to earn and learn. The new apprenticeship standards have also seen a new approach to the delivery of apprenticeships that is much more robust and has a greater input from employers.

What apprenticeships can be done?

There are so many different types of apprenticeship available. Just about every type of job has an apprenticeship to cover it. What is important for both businesses and the apprentice is to do the right level. If the apprentice is an A Level leaver they should be doing either an advanced or higher level apprenticeship. Apprentices can now progress through different levels of apprenticeship all the way up to Level 7 which is the equivalent of a Masters degree.

If you are a business and would like an apprentice then our advice is to recruit now while school leavers are actively searching.