The 17th annual National Apprenticeship Week takes place this week (5 to 9 February), and this year's theme is #SkillsForLife and Brighton & Hove City Council will be flying the flag for apprenticeships at Hove Town Hall.
Apprenticeships are a popular option which allows people to gain qualifications from level 2 to degree level while earning a wage at the same time and gives participants the opportunity to learn skills that upskill them in their job role and build a solid career foundation.
It’s been shown that apprenticeships can ensure businesses across the city can fill skill gaps, increase productivity, and reduce staff turnover. It is crucial to supporting Brighton & Hove's businesses and their workforce.
Research shows that 90% of apprentices go into work or further training, with 88% going into sustained employment. Apprenticeships can be the springboard to a successful, long-term career, and the council will continue to support apprentices and employers across the city.
Brighton & Hove City Council also have a scheme designed to encourage small and medium-sized businesses across Brighton & Hove to take on new apprentices by paying 100% of the training cost through the Levy Transfer scheme.
The opportunity to apply for funding is open continuously throughout the year, and you will be notified it your application has been successful.
To learn more about whether your business may be eligible for funding for an apprentice and how to apply, please visit the apprenticeship levy transfer funding page.
Councillor Jacob Taylor, co-chair of the council's Children, Families and Schools committee, said: "It's great to see the 17th annual Apprenticeship Week take place again this year, as it's an excellent opportunity to allow both potential apprentices and employers to find out more on the benefits that apprenticeships can bring.
"The council has been an advocate of apprenticeships for several years, and we currently have more than 120 apprentices in training across our council services.
"National Apprenticeship Week is a great opportunity to recognise the achievements of apprentices and the positive impact they make to communities, businesses, and our wider economy."