Apprenticeships are work-based learning programmes that enable businesses to upskill their workforce with nationally-recognised qualifications. It has been well established that Apprenticeships increase productivity, help retain loyal employees and save businesses money.
DS Smith have been working with ACT for almost a year since the Apprenticeship Levy came into force, with ACT being their preferred training provider for Wales.
DS Smith is no different to any other company who have to realise the potential of their people in order to grow and the Apprenticeship Levy in England has prompted them to mirror the offer they have in England to both their Welsh counterparts and Scottish counterparts.
Hayley Teague, Apprenticeship Levy Fund Administrator at DS Smith, shares her top three reasons why they chose to engage, inspire and grow with Apprenticeships:
1. Upskilling existing staff
“As a business we are concentrating on upskilling our current workforce as part of our corporate plan, to realise the potential of our people, and I think it’s important that they grow with us and this is the best way to do it, through Apprenticeships. They also get a qualification so it’s a win-win for the business and the candidate.”
2. Tailored programmes
“ACT stood out because of the way they tailor-make the actual Apprenticeships to suit the business. I would encourage people to take advantage of ACT’s Apprenticeship scheme. They are professional and the delivery is superb.”
3. Staff Professional Development
“Apprenticeships are part of our learning and development strategy. They enable us to progress our staff to higher positions within the company, as well as enabling our staff to share their new knowledge with others in their teams.”
Did you know that all our Apprenticeships are fully-funded through the Welsh Government? We access the funding so your business doesn’t have to pay a penny! And if you’re paying into the Apprenticeship levy, now is the best time to make the most of it and hire an Apprentice or engage and inspire your current workforce.
So the question is, can you afford not to upskill your workforce with Apprenticeships? Visit www.acttraining.org.uk/employers or email info@acttraining.org.uk to find out more.
