Hiring an apprentice is one of the most cost-effective ways to train new and existing employees, while helping them develop the skills they need to excel in your company.
Furthermore, with a wide variety of programmes available, apprenticeships are becoming an increasingly popular way for businesses to build a skilled and motivated workforce.
Key points about hiring an apprentice:
- An apprentice can start from 16 years old, with no strict upper age limit.
- Current employees can also become apprentices to enhance their skills and career development.
- Apprenticeships include on-the-job and off-the-job training and last at least 8 months.
- Typically, apprentices spend 80% of their time working and gaining experience, and 20% in structured training, either at the workplace, a college, or with a training provider.
Why Hire an Apprentice?
Apprenticeships offer a practical and cost-effective way to attract, develop and retain skilled employees. Specifically, here’s how they strengthen your workforce:
Stay ahead of the recruitment rush
By starting early, you gain first access to motivated school and college leavers entering the labour market.
Fill the skills gap
Given that skills shortages are responsible for a significant proportion of UK vacancies, growing your own workforce remains one of the most reliable strategies for securing talent.
Zero national insurance for under 25’s
As a result employers do not pay Class 1 Secondary National Insurance for apprentices under 25 (up to the upper secondary threshold), improving cost‑efficiency for early‑career hires.
Digital-native talent
In addition, Gen Z and emerging Gen Alpha entrants bring strong digital intuition, adaptability and modern problem‑solving approaches – vital as AI and automation reshape business operations.
Higher retention rates
Consequently, apprentices show strong loyalty to employers who invest in their early development, reducing long‑term turnover costs.
Additional Employer Support & Incentives
Furthermore, in addition to the strategic benefits above, employers also receive practical support and financial incentives:
- Training meets industry standards and is relevant to your company.
- Additional benefits for Employers recruiting Apprentices aged 16-18 
- Funding is available to support employers hiring an Apprentice over 19.
- Apprentices are committed and motivated – they can see you are investing in them.
- Application is through us – selected candidates are referred to employers.
- 96% of employers that take on an apprentice report benefits to their business* 
- Our close links with apprenticeships.gov.uk  give you extra support.
* statistic taken from the National Apprenticeship Service 
To view the latest information about employing an apprentice and how apprenticeship funding works, please visit the government website.
Want To Hire an Apprentice?
Simply complete a Business Request Form and arrange a chat with a member of employer services team.Â
