Learning at Work: Invest in your future
This week is Learning at Work Week 2023, which takes place annually to build and develop learning cultures within the workplace. Its primary aim is to highlight the importance of continuous growth among employees and young people. This year’s theme, Create the Future, explores how lifelong learning at work can help us all personally and collectively create our futures. So, how does it link to apprenticeship programmes?
Businesses face a skills gap over the next couple of years and need to start planning now. Recent research from PwC and The Times Education Commission supports this with employers feeling that young people are increasingly ‘under-prepared for the world of work’.
89% of businesses feel it’s important that young people are assessed on ‘more than just academic skills’ as it leads to a skills shortage post-16. Additionally, 39% of employers also feel that time management and problem-solving skills are missing. Investing in an apprentice provides a solution to that problem. It is difficult to teach certain skills in the classroom, with a more hands-on approach needed to develop competencies including leadership and communication. That’s where apprenticeships come in.
Train your future employees
Hiring an apprentice can help address these skill gaps as your business commits to the development of that young person. Apprenticeships offer on-the-job training, allowing the development of key skills like communication and problem-solving which employers are missing. This is a great way to ensure that your business is investing in an employee that confidently has the skills to do the job at hand.
Use existing knowledge to encourage learning at work
An apprenticeship programme allows your business to ‘capitalise on the existing knowledge and experience’ already at your disposal. Working alongside colleagues who have real-life experience allows apprentices to develop to the needs of the business, making it the ideal opportunity to learn.
Upskilling makes sense long-term
Investing in an apprenticeship makes long-term sense for businesses. A report from the FSCC and PwC UK found bringing in new talent almost £50,000 more expensive per employee compared to upskilling. Choosing to hire an apprentice is a direct commitment from your business to train and upskill a young person. It can make your business more efficient due to investing significantly lower financially than choosing to employ an external person.
Plan for the future
Hiring an apprentice allows your business to plan ahead. You’re investing time and money into their development in return for loyalty and a fully trained, motivated employee. This allows you to plan for the future and dedicate training to support that employee helping them develop into more senior positions later in their career. In a world full of uncertainty, that solidarity is worth investing in for businesses.
With the skills gap offering a potential challenge, stand out from the rest and invest in your future. Click here to find out why hiring an apprentice makes perfect sense for your business.
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