Merit Apprenticeship Alliance’s Post

📣 Exciting news for construction companies and young talent! The Government will now provide fully funded apprenticeships in small businesses, covering the entire cost of training for individuals up to the age of 21. This game-changing initiative is set to significantly reduce costs and burdens for businesses while creating more opportunities for young people to kick-start their careers in the construction industry. By fully funding apprenticeships, small employers will no longer have to bear the financial responsibility of training costs, easing the burden and allowing them to invest in other areas of their business. With an additional £60 million of new government funding allocated for next year, there's a firm commitment to meet the demand for apprenticeships from businesses. This announcement not only benefits businesses by reducing costs and administrative hassles but also opens up a world of opportunities for young individuals eager to enter the construction industry. It's a win-win situation that promises to strengthen the sector and empower the much-needed next generation of skilled workers. #Apprenticeships #ConstructionIndustry #Opportunity #InvestingInTalent

Reflecting on the 2023/24 Apprenticeship Figures In the latest release of apprenticeship data for the 2023/24 academic year, we're witnessing a testament to the quality and resilience of apprenticeship programs and their critical role in shaping the future workforce. Apprenticeships really are the future! Some stand outs for me... 📊 A 2.5% increase in apprenticeship starts signifies not just growth but a clear trust in apprenticeship programs as a reliable pathway to skilled employment. The rise to 200,550 from 195,600 in the previous year highlights a positive trend towards embracing hands-on learning and skills development. 👥 With under 19s accounting for 28.9% of starts, it's clear that apprenticeships are becoming an increasingly popular choice for young people looking to jumpstart their careers. This engagement from a younger demographic speaks volumes about the perceived value and quality of these programs. 📈 The 9.1% growth in higher apprenticeships and starts at Level 6 and 7 demonstrates a shift towards more advanced skills training, addressing the demand for higher-level competencies in the workforce. 🎓 An 18.5% increase in apprenticeship achievements, despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, reflects the adaptability and commitment to quality within the apprenticeship sector. Although to be interpreted with caution, it's a reminder of the resilience of learners and the robustness of the apprenticeship model in maintaining standards of excellence. The role of quality assurance, standards management, and continuous improvement in driving these positive outcomes is fundamental to success. We must also continue to champion apprenticeships as a cornerstone of professional development and a vital bridge between education and industry. #Apprenticeships #QualityAssurance #ProfessionalDevelopment #FutureOfWork #Education #SkillsForLife Ref: https://lnkd.in/d2fG-85T

🌟 Unlock the Future of Skilled Trades with Apprenticeship Programs! 🌟 Did you know that apprenticeship programs are essential for bridging the skills gap and ensuring a robust future workforce? They offer hands-on training, real-world experience, and a pathway to career advancement in various trades. 🛠️ Why are apprenticeship programs crucial? Addressing Skill Shortages: Apprenticeship programs help meet the growing demand for skilled workers in industries like construction, manufacturing, and healthcare. Economic Benefits: Apprenticeships contribute to economic growth by creating a pipeline of qualified workers ready to meet industry needs. Discover why investing in apprenticeship programs is crucial for businesses, communities, and aspiring professionals alike. 👉 Read more here: Why Do We Need More Apprenticeship Programs: https://zurl.co/23up #Apprenticeships #SkilledTrades #WorkforceDevelopment #CareerTraining #FutureOfWork

Top 10 Apprenticeship Employers 🎉 Visit the link below to read more about the large and small companies recognised for their apprenticeship programmes, creating opportunities and driving growth👇 https://lnkd.in/eEeuKxX9

📣 Is your business ready for the new apprenticeship funding changes? 📣 The Department for Education has just unveiled the 2024/25 draft funding rules for apprenticeships starting from August 2024... And we're here to help! Here's a quick summary: 🎯 Quarterly Reviews for Additional Learning Support (ALS): ALS reviews are now scheduled on a quarterly basis, aligning assessments with regular reviews, and enabling them to be conducted at any stage of the programme. ⚡ Functional Skills Modifications: Based on a successful pilot, adjustments have been made for apprentices with special educational needs - making learning more accessible for those with difficulties. 🔍 Progress Review Changes: Signatures at every progress review are no longer required. However, providers are still required to work closely with employers and document any missed reviews. 💼 Subcontracting Threshold Adjustment: Providers can now subcontract unlisted entities on the APAR to deliver up to £30,000 worth of apprenticeship training and assessment services. Want to learn more about the apprenticeship funding rule changes? Head to our website to read our full article 👉 👉 👉 https://lnkd.in/e7VWPeey #Apprenticeships #FundingRules

The Popularity of Registered Apprenticeships is Growing… and so is federal funding. On March 1, 2024 the U.S. Department of Labor has announced the availability of nearly $200 million in grants to bolster Registered Apprenticeships, fostering public-private partnerships aimed at expanding, diversifying, and strengthening apprenticeship opportunities. This funding opportunity includes $95 million in competitive grants through the second round of the Apprenticeship Building America Grant Program, as well as $100 million in the second round of State Apprenticeship Expansion Formula Grants. For employers, these grants present an opportunity to not only invest in the development of their workforce but also to leverage state and federal support in doing so. By participating in Registered Apprenticeship programs, businesses can access funding to offset training costs and ensure a skilled and sustainable workforce for the future. As we navigate the evolving landscape of education and employment, apprenticeships stand out as a win-win solution for both individuals and employers. Let's seize the opportunities ahead and continue to champion apprenticeship programs as integral components of our workforce development strategy. More details and links to resources here: https://lnkd.in/gXy4264E #Apprenticeships #WorkforceDevelopment #SkillsTraining #EmploymentOpportunities #USDepartmentofLabor #Grants #RegisteredApprenticeships

Yesterday the government announced that, from 1 April, SME employers who are not currently levy payers no longer have to contribute to the cost of apprenticeship training for 16-21 year-olds with the Government fully funding the training costs for these individuals.   In addition to this, from 6 April, levy-paying employers can transfer up to 50% of their funds to support apprenticeships in other businesses, double the current 25%. The initiative is further supported by a £60m investment for next year.   This move is expected to unleash a wave of opportunity for budding apprentices and small business owners, driving economic growth and prosperity nationwide.   We are committed to supporting SMEs and driving positive change through apprenticeship.   If you would like to get in touch with us about hiring an apprentice or to find out more about how the new announcements might affect your business, please get in touch with us at: [email protected] or click here to fill out our contact form: https://bit.ly/3TGBYw5 #AspirationTraining #Apprenticeships #Apprentice #SME #ApprenticeshipLevy

My mind is on the apprenticeship program. This is because the apprenticeship program plays a vital strategic role in the Australian construction industry. For many aspiring tradespeople, their apprenticeship experience serves as their first point of contact with the industry and shapes their perspective on their career path. Given the current skills gap crisis, a steady supply of highly trained workers entering the construction trades is more critical than ever. As a part of the Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector, apprenticeship is the main pipeline for developing skilled workers. However, the system is currently facing major challenges including falling completion rates, lack of diversity, and strained capacity. The apprenticeship program is probably one of the pipelines for developing skilled workers, and I think there is an opportunity right now to re-examine and enhance the apprenticeship incentive program. Here are some recommendations for improvement: - Restructuring incentives to be employer-centered rather than role-specific - Setting clear targets to lift commencement rates and completion rates - Providing support to improve diversity of apprentice cohorts - Offering wage subsidies to small and medium businesses to reward strong supervision and support - Establishing grant funds for large businesses to expand successful mentoring programs A strategic, two-tiered incentive approach would leverage the success of large businesses, which achieve ~90% apprentice completion rates, while better supporting small and medium businesses that employ the majority of apprentices. My proposition is that there's a need to review the program, identify pain points, and implement targeted enhancements. I am happy to hear your thoughts. #construction, #australianapprenticeship #aussietraders #australianconstruction #EPIC

The Department of Education is recognising the nation’s top #apprenticeship employers again this year! First compiled in 2020, the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers and Top 50 SME Apprenticeship Employers are back in 2024 to showcase the apprenticeship employers that have done the most to provide apprenticeship opportunities over the past 12 months. The prestigious annual employer rankings have been developed by the Department of Education, in partnership with High Fliers Research, who independently assess and rank the nation’s top apprenticeship employers. The Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers celebrates outstanding apprenticeship employers, recognising their commitment to creating new apprenticeships, the diversity of their apprentices, and the number of apprentices who successfully achieve their apprenticeships. And the Top 50 SME Apprenticeship Employers features the country’s leading small and medium-sized employers who offer apprenticeship programmes. Over the past three years, more than 1,000 apprenticeship employers from a wide range of industries and business sectors have entered for the rankings. The deadline for entries is 5pm on Friday 12th April and the results will be announced this summer.  Successful apprenticeship employers featured in the new 2024 rankings will be invited to attend a celebration lunch at the House of Commons in the autumn.  You can place you entry at https://lnkd.in/eHuyVUBV.  Best of luck!

📅 Only 5 days left to apply for Apprenticeships Top Employers 2024 (https://lnkd.in/dqMBGzGk). 🌟 Showcase your commitment to nurturing talent and driving innovation in your industry. Why should you apply? 1️⃣ Enhance Your Employer Brand: Being listed among the top apprenticeship employers boosts your credibility and attractiveness to potential recruits. 2️⃣ Celebrate Your Success: Your hard work deserves recognition! Showcase your achievements and inspire others to follow in your footsteps. 3️⃣ Access to Talent: Stand out as an employer of choice and attract top-tier apprentices who are eager to learn and contribute to your organization's success. 4️⃣ Networking Opportunities: Connect with other leading employers, share best practices, and forge valuable partnerships within the apprenticeship community. Don't miss out on this opportunity to showcase your dedication to apprenticeship excellence. Apply now at https://lnkd.in/dqMBGzGk before entries close in 5 days!🚀 #TopApprenticeshipEmployers #ApprenticeshipExcellence #FutureOfWork #SkillsDevelopment #LearnAndGrow #ApprenticeshipJourney #FutureSkills #CareerDevelopment #ProfessionalTraining #SkillUp #TrainingMatters