Apprenticeship support & grant

What we offer

Our apprenticeship support is available to all EnterprisePlus companies, we offer:

• Free impartial information and guidance, whether your company wants to learn more about what an apprenticeship is, how government subsidises the training cost for small employers or require support with initial set up; we are here to help.
• A grant of £5,000 (if eligible) to help contribute towards the initial set up costs if you are looking to recruit a new apprentice and have not done so in the previous 2 years. Terms and conditions apply
• If awarded the grant we also offer the apprentice free membership of the Royal Society of Chemistry and also support them to work towards one of our professional awards as Registered Science Technician or Registered Scientist.

Apprenticeship can be for existing staff members as well as new recruits. They are also available up to degree level, which means it is possible for employees to undertake full BSc degrees through an apprenticeship.

Contact us to find out more or for an initial discussion.

Why apprenticeships?

In the 2017/18 academic year over 375,000 people began an apprenticeship, but less than 700 of these were in laboratory based apprenticeships. With the increasing popularity of apprenticeships and increasing technical skills shortages within the sector, it is important that we encourage employers to realise the benefits that apprenticeships have to offer.

Apprenticeships can provide a valuable way to increase competence, recruit the next generation of leaders into the sector and provide a valuable entry route into the sector for individuals that prefer to learn in an applied manner.

What is an apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with studying towards a recognised qualification. Higher apprenticeships work towards a high level qualification e.g. a BSc degree, a foundation degree, HNC or HND, whilst advanced apprenticeships are at an A level standard and encompass several qualifications, such as NVQs and BTECs.

Benefits of apprenticeships include:

• Succession planning - thus enabling knowledge to be retained within the business and developing the managers/leaders of tomorrow
• Subsidised training – for non-levy paying employers the government funds 90% of the training costs
• Meeting the unique needs of your business – as your apprentice is learning while they work, they will develop the specific skills and knowledge they need for a role in your company.
• Filling skills gaps – 83% of employers rely on their apprenticeship programme to provide the workers they need for the future.
• Creating a more motivated and productive workforce – 92% of employers say apprenticeships lead to a more motivated and satisfied workforce and 65% see improved productivity.
• Enhanced company reputation - 81% of consumers favour using a company which takes on apprentices.
• Improved retention and loyalty - 80% of companies who invest in apprenticeships report a significant increase in employee retention.

All statistics taken from the National Apprenticeship Service and BIS Research Paper 204 Apprenticeship Evaluation: Employers Dec 2014.

Who delivers the qualifications/training?

Training providers and universities that have been approved by government can deliver the qualifications and training that is part of the apprenticeship. There are a number of providers throughout the country that have received government approval and we can help you select a provider that is most appropriate to your needs.

Further information

The the government websites for England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland contain further information on apprenticeships.

Contact us to find out more or for an initial discussion.