Strong demand for apprenticeships as Levy approaches

In the run-up to the introduction of the Apprenticeship Levy on 6th April, 89% of employers say the new scheme will encourage them to take on apprentices.

That’s according to new research from totaljobs, which surveyed 2200 jobseekers and found that 36% would consider an apprenticeship and 49% would consider a Degree Apprenticeship in next five years.

Apprenticeships have long been recognised as a crucial way to develop the skills wanted by employers. Rising tuition fees may also have influenced the 34% of jobseekers who would choose an apprenticeship over going to university.

And 30% of businesses say the number of apprentices they plan to take on between July 2016 and 2017 is higher than in previous years. Only 9% are taking on less – therefore three times as many businesses are taking on more apprentices than less.

Under the new scheme, employers will be able to continue to train apprenticeships themselves and will have access to registered education and training providers. With a levy applied to all businesses of a certain size, apprenticeships will be offered across all sectors of the economy at a growing number of levels.

John Salt, Director, totaljobs said: “Apprenticeships have long been recognised as a key way to develop the skills needed by employers and the Government has stated their intention to have three million apprentices in the workplace by 2020. The introduction of the Levy in the coming weeks may bring challenges for some employers but will also provide businesses with a good opportunity to take stock of their hiring and training strategies.

“We’re seeing increasing evidence that employers are acutely concerned by widening skills gaps throughout their organisations and their wider industries. Growing talent among the next generation, and helping people to transition their skills into new careers through apprenticeships is one way we can lay a strong foundation for ongoing jobs growth.

“Our research shows a clear and growing desire among jobseekers to take advantage of these opportunities. Employers understand the skills, knowledge and behaviours that they require to sustain and grow their businesses and we will play our part by showcasing their offering to prospective employees. A new Courses Hub on totaljobs will list apprenticeship training providers and courses, to help match jobseekers with the jobs they want at the companies they want to work for.”