A National Survey, carried out by the Scottish Government, reports that nearly one in five businesses has taken on an apprentice. In 2021, 19% of Scottish businesses offered modern and graduate apprenticeships to individuals, which is an increase compared to 2019 at 16%. The number of apprenticeships has continuously increased since 2014.
According to the survey, which was sent to 1000 companies, a total of 40% said they plan to begin offering or continuing apprenticeships in future, which is an increase of 29% from their report in 2019. Over 90% of businesses, that currently offer apprenticeships, plan on continuing their offering which shows a positive and promising future for individuals seeking an apprenticeship.
Frank Mitchell, who is the chair of Skills Development Scotland said “Providing work-based learning opportunities helps attract talented and motivated young workers to secure the skills employers, individuals and the economy need for the future.”
Filling Staff Shortages & Skill Gaps
Over 55% of employers that completed the survey said that they decided to go down the apprenticeship route for reasons relating to securing talented staff members. According to previous employer research conducted by Skills Development Scotland, 83% of employers said taking on an apprentice boosted their organisation’s productivity, while over 75% mentioned apprenticeships had improved staff morale.
Apprenticeships are one of the best ways to fill skill gaps and staff shortages. Our digital SVQs allow your staff to gain the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in the workplace and become qualified in their field. Implementing our apprenticeships in your organisation will not only show your support for Scottish apprenticeships but will also future-proof your business by equipping your apprentice with vital digital skills and experience.
Youth Employment Support
The survey findings also play a vital part in apprenticeships via The Young Person Guarantee by the Scottish Government, which aims to secure employment opportunities for young people aged 16-24. 28% of firms mentioned they introduced an apprenticeship opportunity to ensure a stream of young people into their organisation. Approximately a quarter of firms said they did this to give a young person a chance to gain an industry-recognised qualification.
To find out more about potential additional funding, click here or contact your local authority to gain insight into their offering.
MSP, Minister for Higher Education, Further Education, Youth Employment and Training, Jamie Hepburn said “Apprenticeships will play a vital role in supporting Scotland’s economic recovery and renewal, giving employers access to a talent pipeline and the means to reskill their workforce.”
Are you an employer that is eager to secure and implement digital apprenticeship programmes in your organisation? Contact our team today on 01355 698011 to discover our range of apprenticeships and how you can enhance your workforce today.