A great way to launch a career in the sector is by one of the many Apprenticeships on offer.  Age is not a restriction for career changers and there are opportunities to upskill in various occupations.  There are more than 640 apprenticeships approved in England by employers, meaning someone could pursue a career in anything from Dryliner to Contracts Manager.  The National Apprenticeship Service has some great advice for employers including clear information on costs.  Take a look at the FIS Apprentice – Guidance for Employers and if you need information, advice or guidance call FIS on 0121 707 0077 or email info@thefis.org

Transfer and Receive Apprenticeship Levy

Employers in England that pay the apprenticeship levy can transfer their unused apprenticeship funds to help other organisations pay for apprenticeship training.  The employer that receives the funds can only use them to pay for apprenticeship training and assessment.  You can transfer up to 25% of your apprenticeship funds.

Prior to sign up you will need an apprenticeship service account

Create an account to manage apprenticeships – Manage apprentices (manage-apprenticeships.service.gov.uk)

Transferring your apprenticeship levy to another business – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

An apprenticeship levy paying employer can transfer up to 25% of their annual levy funds to another employer to pay for the training and assessment costs for apprenticeship standards.  Transfers can support new apprenticeship starts, this includes existing staff starting an apprenticeship or where the apprentice’s employer has changed.  Transfers may be used to support the skills gaps and shortages within locations or sectors.

Receive a levy transfer from another business to fund an apprenticeship – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Transfers is one way of receiving funding to support the costs of apprenticeship training and assessment.  By receiving a transfer, if you do not pay the levy then you will save the 5% employer co-investment.  Also, transfers do not count towards reservation of funds.  Apprenticeships are not just for new employees; they are available to upskill existing employees too.

If you need assistance to transfer, pledge or secure apprenticeship funds for taking on an apprentice give FIS a call on 0121 707 0077 or email info@thefis.org