1. Fresh perspectives and new ideas
Apprentices bring a fresh injection of enthusiasm and new ways of thinking. We often hear from our employers, that some of their best ideas stem from their apprentices.
2. Retain your top staff
New and existing staff alike are able to embark upon higher and degree apprenticeships. These apprenticeships offer the perfect opportunity for existing staff to upskill. Investing in your staff and enabling them to attain an additional qualification is a demonstration of your commitment to them, something likely to be reciprocated and reflected in improved staff performance and retention.
3. Offer leadership opportunities to staff in a range of roles
Apprenticeships don’t just offer professional development for apprentices themselves, other staff can benefit too. All apprentices need a workplace mentor, this can be an opportunity for existing staff to take on leadership responsibilities and gain the skills needed for future management roles.
4. Attract the best talent
Quality apprenticeships attract excellent applicants and are highly sought-after. An additional benefit of higher and degree apprenticeships with Kent is the recruitment support the University can provide: advertising vacancies and identifying suitable candidates.
5. Reward existing skills and achievements
Many employees work their way up, learning on the job, and may lack formal qualifications. In some cases prior experience can be used instead of formal qualifications to meet the eligibility requirements of a higher or degree apprenticeship, and thus facilitate obtaining a recognised University qualification.
6. Ensure your staff have a qualification that’s tailored to your business needs
New apprenticeship standards have been designed to put the employer in the driving seat. This means that you can work with training providers (e.g. the University of Kent) to develop an apprenticeship programme tailored to your needs, meaning an end to skills mismatch and employees geared up for your work environment.
7. Enable existing employees to achieve their full potential
Top quality apprenticeships challenge and inspire. They represent an extended learning commitment and truly stretch staff and help them achieve their full potential.
If you would like to boost your business with apprenticeships, register your interest by emailing apprenticeships@kent.ac.uk.