Apprenticeships are one of the most effective ways to develop talent, close skills gaps, and invest in your workforce. Whether you’re taking on a new apprentice or enrolling an existing employee, the process is straightforward when you have the right support.
As a training provider, we work closely with employers to make the journey simple from start to finish. Here’s what you need to know.
Identify the Business Need
Start by looking at where an apprenticeship could add value to your organisation.
This might include:
- Filling a skills gap
- Supporting business growth
- Developing existing staff
- Succession planning
- Improving retention
Apprenticeships aren’t just for new recruits. Many employers use them to upskill current employees and prepare them for more senior roles.
Choose the Right Apprenticeship Standard
Each apprenticeship is built around an approved standard that outlines the skills, knowledge, and behaviours the apprentice will learn.
Choosing the right standard depends on:
- The employee’s role
- Their experience level
- Your business objectives
As a training provider, Aspire can help you select the most suitable option and ensure it aligns with your organisation’s goals. View our apprenticeships by clicking here.
Check Funding and Eligibility
Most employers can access government funding to support apprenticeship training. Apprenticeship training is funded by the government, and most employers can access significant financial support. If your organisation pays the Apprenticeship Levy, you can use your levy funds to cover the cost of training. If you don’t pay the levy, the government will typically fund 95% of the training cost, with the employer contributing the remaining 5%.
The level of funding available will depend on factors such as:
- The size of your organisation
- Whether you pay the Apprenticeship Levy
- The apprenticeship standard selected
Your training provider will guide you through the funding process and explain any employer contributions if required. Click here for more information on apprenticeship funding rules.
Select Your Apprentice
You can either:
- Recruit a new apprentice, or
- Enrol an existing member of staff
If you’re recruiting, your training provider can support with promoting the vacancy, shortlisting candidates, and ensuring they meet the eligibility criteria.
If you’re enrolling an existing employee, the process focuses on assessing their current skills and confirming the apprenticeship is the right fit.
Enrol and Begin Training
Once everything is in place, the apprentice will be enrolled onto their programme.
Training typically includes:
- Structured learning sessions
- On-the-job training
- Regular progress reviews
- Ongoing support for both the apprentice and employer
Throughout the programme, Aspire will work with you to ensure the apprenticeship delivers real value to your business.
Support Your Apprentice
Employer support plays a key role in a successful apprenticeship.
This includes:
- Providing opportunities to apply new skills
- Allowing time for off-the-job training (20% of their working week)
- Regular check-ins and feedback
Developing your apprentice properly helps maximise the return on your investment.
Completion and Progression
At the end of the programme, the apprentice will complete their final assessment.
Many employers then choose to:
- Progress the employee into a more senior role
- Enrol them onto a higher-level apprenticeship
- Continue developing their skills within the business
Apprenticeships are designed to support long-term workforce development, not just short-term training.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re considering an apprenticeship for your organisation, we’re here to help. From choosing the right programme to enrolment and delivery, our team will support you every step of the way.
Get in touch to discuss your apprenticeship options here.
