Among the interesting points to emerge from the survey was that the biggest barrier to employing an apprentice was not the Apprenticeship Levy, but the lack of suitable candidates, as well as problems with training providers.
Steve Gee, CEO of Close Brothers Asset Finance's Industrial Equipment Division, says: “Over the past four years Close Brothers Asset Finance, working in partnership with the MTA and the University of Sheffield’s AMRC Training Centre, have funded the training of 60 apprentices. It is very encouraging to see the results of this survey and we’re proud of the part we have played.”
Under the scheme, Close Brothers Asset Finance helped pay for apprentices to learn their skills at the AMRC Training Centre, funding half of the new recruits’ wages during the first year and a quarter in the second. This support has meant participating SMEs have not had to bear the full cost of employing the apprentices until they are making a positive contribution to their businesses. The first intake was in September 2015 and the scheme is still going strong today.
James Selka, CEO of the MTA, says: “It’s fantastic to see that engineering firms are leading the way in terms of recruiting the next generation. At the MTA, we’re committed to helping our members recruit fresh talent by offering training grants and loans to help ease the financial burden. The work we’ve done alongside Close Brothers Asset Finance and the AMRC Training Centre has so far given 60 apprentices the best possible start to their careers. We’ll continue to champion our sector and the opportunities it provides.”
