Businesses across West Lindsey are being encouraged to create new employment and training opportunities by advertising apprenticeship vacancies through the Government’s official ‘Employ an Apprenticeship’ service.

As part of National Apprenticeship Week (February 9-14) the district council is supporting this year’s theme ‘Skills For Life’, which underpins a commitment to fostering talent and bridging skills gaps across the district.

Amanda Bouttell, Senior Project Officer, Employment and Skills at the council, said: “Apprenticeships play a crucial role in helping local employers build the skilled workforce they need for the future.

“By advertising vacancies through the Government’s apprenticeship service website, businesses can reach motivated candidates who are ready to learn, grow, and contribute from day one.

Ella Gardner began her apprenticeship journey at West Lindsey District Council in January last year and is shortly to take on a permanent role as a Housing and Enforcement Support Officer. Photo: WLDC

placeholder image — Ella Gardner began her apprenticeship journey at West Lindsey District Council in January last year and is shortly to take on a permanent role as a Housing and Enforcement Support Officer. Photo: WLDC

“We strongly encourage employers to make use of this platform; it not only supports young people and career changers into meaningful work but also strengthens our local economy and boosts long term business resilience.”

Apprentices can be new or existing employees aged 16 or over, combining work with structured training to gain job specific skills. WLDC says apprenticeships help employers strengthen their workforce, with many reporting improvements in productivity and service quality as they expand their apprenticeship programmes.

Employers can choose an apprenticeship that fits their business needs and even select an approved training provider. Once posted, vacancies appear on the national Find an Apprenticeship platform, giving employers access to a wide pool of motivated candidates across England.

The council currently has seven apprenticeships including individuals in planning, projects and customer service.

Sally Grindrod-Smith, Director of Planning, Regeneration and Communities said: “We are committed to apprenticeships across the council because they help us grow a skilled, loyal workforce. By making the most of the apprenticeship levy, government incentives and the clear guidance available, taking on an apprentice is a straightforward and effective way to bring new talent into our organisation.”

The council lists a number of advantages and benefits:

- Financial and strategic - apprenticeships are a cost-effective way of bringing on new staff and developing existing staff skills and knowledge. Most of the council’s apprentices stay and go on to progress within the council. This

ensures the council retains talent, and helps to build a dedicated, skilled and loyal workforce.

- Government Levy and Incentives – the council is an apprentice levy payer and so it aims to maximise the opportunities for utilising the levy in the most practical and useful way. Additionally, government provide financial incentives and grants if you take on a 16-18-year-old or a 19-24-year-old with an Education Healthcare Plan (EHCP) for example.

- Simple Process – by following guidance from the apprenticeship website, learning how to take on an apprentice and how you will be supported by a training provider can make the process simple and reduce the administrative

burden.

There is lots of advice for employers on the government website including, training, funding availability and apprentice agreements and training plans. Employers can get started at: www.gov.uk/employing-an-apprentice.