Investing in the Future: Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week with Inspire Education Group

This National Apprenticeship Week, Inspire Education Group (IEG) celebrates the incredible impact of apprenticeships in shaping careers, businesses and our communities. 

Many of today’s industry leaders, mentors, and educators began their journeys as apprentices, benefitting from the guidance and investment of experienced professionals. 

By combining real-world experience with expert-led training, Apprenticeships offer a unique pathway into skilled employment! Did you start your journey as an apprentice? If so, is now a great opportunity for you to give back. 

We caught up with Inspire Education Group’s Apprenticeship Recruitment Manager, Paul Ward to talk about how hiring an apprentice can benefit your business in more ways than one.  

What are the key benefits of hiring an apprentice for a business? 

It’s a cost-effective way for businesses to introduce fresh talent and allows companies to train employees according to their specific needs while benefiting from government support financially. Apprentices bring new ideas and energy, helping businesses grow and innovate.

How can apprenticeships help companies address skills shortages and future-proof their workforce?

Apprentices entering the workforce can bring a new perspective and fresh ideas, such as expertise in social media and AI, which can benefit any company. 

What support does Inspire Education Group offer to businesses looking to take on an apprentice? 

Our team of Apprenticeship Recruitment Officers specialise in various sectors and assist businesses with recruitment and an initial assessment screening to ensure the apprentice is the right fit for each business. We also help employers set up apprenticeship programs from their perspective, including guidance on Apprenticeship Service Accounts, making the process smooth and efficient.

What is the balance between apprentices in the workplace and classroom learning at College?

We understand it cant be a ‘one size fits all approach’ so training programmes can be flexible to suit your specific business need. Employers must commit to a minimum of six hours per week for an apprentice’s off-the-job training, and Apprentices typically attend College one day a week, though some programs require less. 

What are the wage requirements for hiring an apprentice? 

In April 2025, the apprentice minimum wage will be £7.55 per hour. However, employers can choose to pay more or link wages to performance. 

Are there any costs for employers working with Colleges for apprenticeships? 

For employers hiring an apprentice between the ages of 16-21, the Government fully funds apprenticeship training making it a cost-effective way for you to bring new talent into a business. If you want to hire an apprentice over 21, larger organisations are covered by the Government Apprenticeship Levy and smaller businesses have to make a 5% contribution to the total training cost.

What do Employers say: 

“In today’s employment market, the shortage of skills means that it is essential that we as a business grow and build our skilled workforce. We have worked with Peterborough College to help us develop our apprentices, allowing us flexibility when training and the ability to tailor the training to suit the apprentice's needs. Having an engineering apprentice within the business brings fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the team, while also providing an opportunity to mentor and shape the next generation of skilled professionals.”

Alan Stones - Omega Sinto Foundry Machinery Ltd, Peterborough