1. Find the right training provider – Ensure you are familiar with your training provider and their training delivery methods are suitable for your business. Whether it be day release or onsite delivery, make sure it works for you. Ask for references and testimonials from learners and employers.
2. Choose the right apprenticeship framework – Apprenticeships qualifications are varied and flexible, this allows you to offer your apprentice training that is relevant and beneficial to your business. Make sure the framework fits the job role and choose the units that will help develop your apprentice and improve their skills.
3. Advertise the vacancy – Your training provider will advertise the role on the National Apprenticeship Service Website, additionally you can advertise on your own websites, social media or any recruitment sites you wish to do so, allowing more potential candidates to see the vacancy. If you are looking to recruit a young apprentice then it may also be worth contacting local schools and making them aware of the position.
4. Recruit the right person – Don’t base your decision purely on grades, allow time in an interview to chat and get to know the candidate, allowing you to recruit someone whose personality will fit in your business. You may also want to consider work experience or a short work trial allowing both the candidate and the business time to see if they are compatible.
5. Give your apprentice a mentor – This person should be approachable, allowing your apprentice to raise any queries and concerns throughout their apprenticeship. A strong, positive role model will give your apprentice appropriate guidance and ensure that they receive the support they need.
6. Integrate your apprentice in to your business – Ensure your apprentice is welcomed in to your business and has the opportunity to get to know colleagues as well as learning their job role. Don’t forget that your apprentice is a paid member of the team and should be made to feel part of the workforce and not be an outsider as a trainee.
7. Offer Feedback – Have 1-2-1’s with your apprentice, use this as an opportunity to set targets and goals and let them know when they are doing well. Your apprentice will benefit hugely from being regularly reminded of the good work they have done to date and also understanding their areas for development, especially in the early days of an apprenticeship.
8. Recognise their achievements – This will motivate your apprentice to continue their hard work and will feel accomplished in their job role. Company produced certificates, small bonuses and just a simple “Thank you very much” can go such a long way to motivating apprentices and making them feel valued.
If you would like to speak to Runway Training about apprenticeships or any of our training courses in kent, please call us on 01732 402402 or contact us via email
