Apprenticeships - Good for Warwickshire businesses

Increased productivity, higher staff retention and ensuring a skilled workforce for the future are just some of the key benefits that are being highlighted to local businesses during Apprenticeship Week from Monday 9 March to Friday 13 March 2015.

The county council’s Apprenticeship Hub is using the week to launch a major campaign to encourage small businesses to take on apprentices, as well as promoting the range, breadth and success of apprenticeships locally.

Cllr Izzi Seccombe, Leader of Warwickshire County Council and Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth, said: "Apprenticeships not only equip people with the skills that they need to prosper in their lives but they also deliver real benefits to the economy and help businesses to grow their own talent. We would urge local businesses to find out more by visiting www.warwickshire.gov.uk/getanapprentice."

The Apprenticeship Hub offers free support and advice to local firms who may be thinking of hiring an apprentice and is able to help find out whether apprenticeships could be right for their business. The hub has created more than 120 apprenticeship opportunities with small businesses across Warwickshire, in addition to creating 60 apprenticeship opportunities with the county council.

In Warwickshire hundreds of organisations are realising the benefits of apprenticeships, six of which are being featured in the Apprenticeship Week campaign. The businesses cover a range of sectors including advanced manufacturing, retail, engineering, hospitality, forestry and sales.

Executive Chef Matthew Parsons, of EEF Venues’ Woodland Grange Conference Centre in Leamington Spa is currently mentoring his sixth apprentice and says: "Apprentices can bring untold benefits to the business including increased productivity, improved competitiveness and a committed and competent work-force."

Cllr Richard Chattaway, Chair of the council’s Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee added: "Apprenticeships give employers a great opportunity to train and develop their workforce for the future."

Find out more from the Apprenticeship Hub by emailing apprentice@warwickshire.gov.uk calling 01926 412649 or visiting www.warwickshire.gov.uk/getanapprentice

Apprenticeship Week is a national initiative that celebrates apprenticeships and the positive impact that they have on individuals, businesses and the wider economy. For more information visit www.apprenticeships.gov.uk