[04.01.16]

All businesses face issues finding and nurturing talent.  The apprenticeship scheme is the Government’s answer to matching employers’ needs with the need for young people to develop skills and receive experience.

Apprenticeships can be charted back to 1563 with the Elizabethan Statute of Artificers.  This set out the principle of the master-apprentice relationship.  Over the centuries apprenticeships spread through many industrial sectors – construction, engineering, printing.  However, they were generally seen as something for young aspiring trades-people.

The apprenticeships of today have grown and not only cover the trades, but also all elements of business including sales & marketing; and administration.  They also cover professions such as accountancy and building services engineering.

In terms of the nitty-gritty: apprentices are 16 years old or over, and combine working with studying for a work-based qualification – from GCSEs or equivalent up to degree level.  The apprenticeship will last anywhere between one and four years.  The apprentice must be paid at least the minimum wage, which for an apprentice aged 16 to 18 and those aged 19 or over who are in their first year is £3.30 per hour.  When employing an apprentice you may be eligible to apply for a grant of £1,500.

If you are interested in finding out more about employing an apprentice you can look at this website https://www.gov.uk/take-on-an-apprentice/overview or speak to Jackie or Andrew, both of whom have clients who have taken on apprentices and would be happy to chat you through their experience.  In the meantime, watch this space, as Castletons will be looking for an administrative apprentice later in 2016

Castletons Accountants