Recruiting the right person for your business is about far more than just finding someone with the right skills on paper. You want someone who will fit with your company culture, bring fresh energy, and ultimately deliver real value to your team. That’s why apprenticeships can be such a powerful investment, not just in skills, but in people.
When done right, taking on an apprentice can offer an exceptional return on investment (ROI), with benefits that stretch far beyond the initial training period.
Staff loyalty is something which often can’t be bought through a salary alone; personal and professional development, flexibility of the role, job satisfaction and more, all play a part in building a loyal workforce. Apprenticeships can tick at least one of those! They provide structured learning, the chance to progress, and a clear pathway for personal growth. All while giving the apprentice a real stake in the success of the company.
The numbers back this up. In 2022, a Department of Education report found that 62% of apprentices stayed working for the company after completing their apprenticeship, and 76% of employers said that training existing employees as apprentices also helps boost staff retention.
“As I got to know everyone in the company, at EMA as well, it all kind of slotted together, and I got on with everyone. And now, I belong here, you know, I can’t see myself going anywhere else really.” – Anthony Yeomans, Digital Marketing Champion at Devtank
Take Derby-based accountancy firm KLN Accountancy Services Ltd. Back in 2015, they hired an Office Junior named Charlie. Fast forward to today, and Charlie has worked her way through the business, completing her AAT Level 4 in 2023 and qualifying as an accountant. Her dedication and growth have now earned her the role of Operations Director, a true testament to the long-term benefits of investing in apprenticeships.
Charlie’s story shows that when businesses nurture, support, and give opportunities to their staff, apprentices can grow into key leaders who drive the business forward.
You can read more of Charlie’s story here.
In the current economic climate, every hiring decision matters. Apprenticeships provide a cost-effective way to bring in new talent, new perspectives, and valuable skills, all while developing your team from within.
They are also an excellent way to address the reality of an ageing workforce. By training the next generation, businesses can ensure a smoother transfer of skills and leadership over time. Today’s apprentices could well be your department heads, senior managers, or even directors of tomorrow.
“We started off with a manufacturing apprentice 7 years ago and that apprentice has now graduated, and he’s our operations manager. We’ve had marketing apprentice Anthony. We’ve had a software apprentice, Marcus. He’s done really well and is now our Chief of Support for our customers.” – Tim Telford, CEO and Co-Founder of Devtank
One of the most attractive aspects of apprenticeships is the financial support available. Through various Government funding schemes, many businesses can hire an apprentice and pay nothing for their training, mentoring, or qualifications.
In addition, employers don’t pay National Insurance Contributions for apprentices under the age of 25. This means you can invest in long-term talent while keeping costs manageable, a win-win for your business.
At EMA Training, we specialise in helping businesses make the most of these opportunities. Whether you’re looking to grow your team in accountancy, marketing, data analysis, or business administration, we can guide you through the funding process and match you with motivated apprentices who are eager to learn and contribute.
If you want to strengthen loyalty within your team, develop future leaders and save on recruitment and training costs, then apprenticeships could be the perfect solution.
We’ve seen first-hand how investing in apprentices can transform a business, not just in terms of productivity, but in culture and long-term growth.
Ready to turn your next apprentice into your next business leader? Get in touch with us today, and let’s explore how we can help you grow talent from within.