Apprenticeships were once linked to trade occupations but that’s long since changed. In current times, almost every occupation has an associated apprenticeship programme that gives learners the chance to enter their chosen professions as novices and advance all the way to the top. Apprentices also work while they learn, meaning that they can contribute to their workforce whilst still gaining skills, so they provide a productive and cost-effective alternative to getting qualified at university. Unsurprisingly apprenticeship rates are constantly growing, up by 1.3% in the last year.
Industry standard apprenticeship programmes offering the latest up-to-date skills and training are available in a wide range of professional services. HR apprenticeships allow established departments to train and develop colleagues to meet the specific services their business needs.
Here are nine more reasons why an apprentice could be an invaluable asset to your HR team.
1. Apprenticeships meet industry best practice
Apprenticeship standards are constantly being evaluated and developed to ensure that they comply with the latest industry best practice. That means that not only will your apprentice be trained to the latest regulations and guidelines, but you’ll also benefit from valuable insight into industry excellence.
Here at Total People, we are constantly evaluating our HR apprenticeship programmes, and work with employers to ensure our programmes are meeting modern day HR workplace requirements.
2. Apprenticeship standards meet employer needs
Employing an apprentice through an established training provider like Total People ensures that you’re working with experts who know the industry. Learning coaches know what’s required to meet the apprenticeship standards, but they also know the people skills that make HR professionals unique.
Apprentices learn via a combination of on and off-the-job training, so being around people who really know what it takes to be a good HR professional ensures that they absorb the right skills from day one.
3. Cost-effective workforce development
One of the most compelling reasons HR departments should consider apprenticeships is their cost-effectiveness. Hiring apprentices helps businesses reduce labour costs while still investing in skilled talent.
If you’re an apprenticeship levy paying employer, then it’s cost-effective to opt for an apprenticeship as an upskilling solution, as you have technically already set the budget aside for it! The same also applies for employers who don’t pay the levy, as you can still claim from the government to cover the cost of the apprenticeship training programme.
Learn more about funding here: Apprenticeship Funding Eligibility & Rules Simplified for Employers
4. Bridging the skills gap
Many organisations struggle to find HR professionals with the right mix of compliance knowledge, recruitment expertise, and employee engagement skills. HR apprenticeships provide industry-specific training tailored to organisational needs, helping close the HR skills gap and ensuring future HR leaders are well-prepared.
This means, you get to train an employee from the ground up, and tailor their learning to meet the needs and requirements of your business, all while receiving support from the government for the training programme!
5. Enhancing workplace diversity
Apprenticeships are a great way to improve diversity in the workplace. Apprentices from ethnic minorities increased by 9% last year, making up 16% of the cohort.
HR apprenticeships provide opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds, including underrepresented groups, to enter the HR profession. By hiring HR apprentices, organisations can foster inclusivity and ensure that HR teams reflect a broad range of perspectives and experiences.
6. Increasing employee retention
The data shows that 80% of companies that invested in apprenticeship programmes experienced higher employee retention rates. Apprentices often develop a strong sense of loyalty to the organisation that trained them, reducing turnover and recruitment costs.
7. Building a future-ready HR workforce
HR apprentices bring fresh ideas, motivation, and the latest HR knowledge, contributing to improved efficiency in HR operations. Their recent training equips them with up-to-date industry trends, best practices, and innovative approaches to HR challenges.
By integrating new perspectives, HR apprentices can refine recruitment strategies, enhance employee engagement, and introduce creative solutions for talent management. Their enthusiasm and adaptability help organisations stay competitive ahead of industry competitors.
8. Strengthening HR employer branding
Companies that offer HR apprenticeship programmes gain a competitive edge in employer branding. These initiatives showcase a commitment to developing HR talent, making the organisation more attractive to job seekers and reinforcing its reputation as a forward-thinking employer.
9. Funded training
Depending on the size of your company, apprenticeship funding could be available to cover most, if not all, of the cost of training. In businesses with fewer than 50 employees, apprentices aged 16-18 are eligible for 100% funding – so you won’t pay a penny! Apprentices aged 19+, or 16+ in a company with more than 50 employees, are eligible for 95% funding.
Choose Total People as your HR apprenticeship provider
Whether you’re looking to upskill existing colleagues or recruit new team members, HR apprenticeships ensure that your business remains current, strategic and successful.
At Total People, we understand the challenges HR teams face. That's why we provide comprehensive support for apprentice employers, from assisting with the apprenticeship recruitment process and delivering tailored training solutions, to helping you secure vital funding and offering constant guidance.
As a leading training provider in the North, we're committed to equipping your business with top-tier talent. Ready to discover how an HR apprentice can transform your team? Contact us today to discuss your specific needs.
