THE National Apprenticeship Service, the driving force behind the North East 100 in 100 apprenticeship campaign, is delighted by its phenomenal success.
John Wayman, regional director of the National Apprenticeship Service, said: “We have been genuinely overwhelmed by the positive response to the campaign from the region’s employers.
“Apprenticeships have a vital role to play in driving sustainable economic growth by creating a new generation of highly skilled workers. Achieving 1,355 apprenticeships in 100 days is an absolutely outstanding achievement and will ensure the campaign leaves a lasting legacy in our region.”
The National Apprenticeship Service (NAS) is the Government organisation responsible for apprenticeships in England. Its aim is to increase the number of apprenticeship opportunities and provide a dedicated, responsive service for both employers and learners.
“One of our main roles is to make it as easy as possible for employers to take on an apprentice by offering impartial help and advice at every step,” explained John.
“We have a dedicated team of apprenticeship advisers based in the region who support employers through the whole process of recruiting an apprentice. They work closely with employers to identify which types of apprenticeship will suit their business needs, help source the most suitable organisation to deliver the training and assist with the cost effective recruitment of the apprentice.”
The National Apprenticeship Service also manages apprenticeship vacancies, the official online web-based recruitment service for apprenticeships in England, where employers can advertise their apprenticeship opportunities to potential apprentices free of charge.
There is widespread evidence of the significant benefits the businesses that have supported the campaign are now set to enjoy. This is further supported by new recent research which shows that every pound invested in apprenticeships generates a return of up to £40 for the economy.
The benefits include increased wages and improved employment prospects for individuals, as well as benefits to employers stemming from increased productivity. John said: “We know employers directly benefit from apprenticeships, which supply them with highly skilled, committed employees who can contribute to their future growth and success.
“Because of this, we know the 100 in 100 campaign will help to generate hundreds more apprenticeship places in the future, as many of the employers who recruited apprentices for the first time recruit more and spread the word throughout their sector.”
To find out how apprenticeships could benefit your business, call the National Apprenticeship Service on 08000 150600 or visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk
