If you've never employed an apprentice before, you may be wondering whether it's the right fit for your business. The good news is that apprenticeships are one of the most effective ways to develop skilled, motivated employees while supporting the future growth of your organisation.
At KEITS, we've supported over 5,000 employers and 18,000 learners, helping businesses of all sizes recruit, train and develop apprentices across a range of industries. Whether you're looking to fill a skills gap, grow your team, or invest in future talent, we're here to make the process simple and straightforward.
Find out more about the apprenticeship courses we offer:
What Is an Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship combines practical work experience with structured training. Apprentices are employed members of staff who learn valuable skills, knowledge and behaviours while working within your business.
They earn a wage, gain nationally recognised qualifications and receive ongoing support from experienced Training Consultants throughout their apprenticeship journey.
Apprenticeships aren’t just for school leavers either. They can be used to recruit new talent or upskill existing employees within your organisation.
Why Hire an Apprentice?
Many employers are surprised by the positive impact apprentices can have on their business:
- Fresh Ideas and Enthusiasm - Apprentices bring a fresh perspective to the workplace. They are often eager to learn, develop new skills and contribute to the success of the business.
- Develop Talent Your Way - Rather than recruiting someone with fixed habits and experience, apprentices can be trained to work in line with your business processes, standards and culture from day one.
- Fill Skills Gaps - Apprenticeships help businesses build the skills they need both now and in the future. This can be particularly valuable in sectors experiencing skills shortages.
- Improve Staff Retention - Employees who are given opportunities to learn and progress are more likely to stay with a business long term, helping reduce recruitment costs and staff turnover.
- Boost Productivity - As apprentices gain knowledge and confidence, they can make a valuable contribution to daily operations and support business growth.
- Access Available Funding and Incentives - Depending on eligibility, employers may be able to access government funding and incentive payments to support apprenticeship recruitment and training.
Is Hiring an Apprentice Complicated?
Not at all.
One of the biggest misconceptions about apprenticeships is that employers are left to manage everything themselves. When you work with KEITS, we guide you through the entire process and provide ongoing support throughout the apprenticeship.
Our team will help you:
- Identify the right apprenticeship programme for your business
- Understand funding and incentive opportunities
- Advertise your vacancy free of charge
- Screen applications and recommend suitable candidates
- Complete required paperwork and onboarding
- Support both you and your apprentice throughout the programme
What Does an Employer Need to Provide?
As an employer, your responsibilities are similar to employing any member of staff.
You will need to:
- Provide a contract of employment
- Pay at least the applicable apprenticeship wage (find out more about national minimum wages here)
- Offer a safe working environment
- Support your apprentice's development
- Allow time for off-the-job training as part of their working week
Don’t worry – KEITS will explain everything clearly and ensure you understand what is required before your apprentice starts.
Will My Apprentice Need to Attend College?
No.
KEITS delivers training directly within your workplace, meaning apprentices can learn while remaining in their working environment. This reduces disruption to your business and allows training to be tailored to real workplace situations. Our experienced Training Consultants work closely with both employers and apprentices to ensure progress remains on track.
What If I Don’t Have a Candidate?
That’s where we can help.
KEITS can advertise your apprenticeship vacancy free of charge across multiple recruitment platforms, including our own vacancy network. We then help screen applications and send you eligible candidates for interview. Many employers find this significantly reduces the time involved in apprentice recruitment.
Why not take a look at our current vacancies here?
Apprenticeships for Existing Staff
Apprenticeships aren’t only for recruiting new employees.
Many businesses use apprenticeships to develop existing staff, helping them gain new skills, qualifications and confidence while continuing to work in their current role. This can be an excellent way to support employee progression and strengthen your workforce and in some cases, still access government incentives.
Why Choose KEITS?
For more than 25 years, KEITS has been helping employers build skilled and successful teams through apprenticeships.
When you work with us, you’ll benefit from:
- Personalised support from experienced Training Consultants
- Flexible workplace-based training
- Free recruitment support
- Nationally recognised apprenticeship programmes
- Guidance on funding and incentives
- Ongoing support for both employer and apprentice
We pride ourselves on creating strong partnerships with employers and helping apprentices achieve their full potential.
Ready to Get Started?
Hiring an apprentice could be one of the best investments you make in the future of your business.
Whether you’re ready to recruit now or simply want to learn more, our team is here to help.
Contact KEITS today to discuss your business needs and discover how an apprenticeship could help your organisation grow.