SMEs reluctant to take on apprentices despite skills shortages
Posted on in Business News , Cycles News
Skills shortages are becoming more of a problem for SMEs in the UK -yet only a small minority of businesses are considering an apprentice to fill the skills gap.
Despite the fact that nearly one-third of UK SMEs surveyed by merchant bank Close Brothers said that their workforce lacked the skills needed by their business, and over half of those asked (55%) say they didn't expect to be able to find suitable recruits for their business due to skills shortages, few employers are considering taking on an apprentice - just 5%
According to those surveyed, the disadvantages to recruiting an apprentice were cost, (cited by 49%), red tape (19%) and time needed for training (14%).
However, back in July 2015 the Benefits of Apprenticeships to Businesses study suggested that taking on an apprentice has financial benefits, such as increased long-term productivity. Plus, with funding options from the government, cost needn't be an issue.
Employers who have not taken on an apprentice in the last year may be eligible to receive a £1,500 grant.
Full
funding is available on cycle maintenance apprenticeships for 16-24
year olds and employer contributions are reduced for over 25s - so there
has never been a better time to take on an apprentice!
Apprenticeships benefit everyone. The apprentice gets valuable on the job training, employers get engaged, loyal staff and customers get professionally maintained bikes from qualified staff. Better yet, apprenticeships are largely delivered in your place of work, meaning little down time for your mechanics.
ATG Training offer an apprenticeship and an advanced apprenticeship.
Cycle Apprenticeship
Who is it for?
Anyone working as a mechanic who wants to gain training and qualifications to use during their working life.
What is included?
- Certificate of Cycle Maintenance (often referred to as a Technical Certificate, this is the specific, hands on training in Cycle Maintenance)
- Cytech Technical Two and wheel building training
- Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Engineering Maintenance & Installation - Cycles pathway
- Functional skills level 1 or 2.
- Employment Responsibilities and Rights
- Personal Learning & Thinking Skills
Advanced Cycle Apprenticeship
Who is it for?
Cycle mechanics that have completed the Apprenticeship and want to increase their skills, technical knowledge and obtain a high level qualification.
What is included?
- Diploma of Cycle Maintenance
- Cytech Technical Three training (3 courses)
- Level 3 NVQ Extended Diploma in Mechanical Manufacturing Engineering - Cycles pathway
- Functional skills at a minimum of level 2
To find out more about taking on a new apprentice or training an existing member of staff with ATG click here or contact ATG Training.