It's the phrase all jobseekers want to hear and one all bosses should consider in their approach to apprentices, according to the Learning and Skills Council (LSC).
New research released after last week's successful Apprenticeship Week shows that
employing enthusiastic trainees can have a huge benefit on overall performance. In an survey of organisations that employ apprentices, more than three-quarters of respondents felt their apprenticeship programme made them more competitive, while the same number believed apprenticeships led to higher productivity.
The findings also demonstrate the impact of apprenticeships on recruitment and retention, with 80 per cent believing that the programme led to an improvement.
Two-thirds of respondents believe their programme helps them fill vacancies more quickly, while 88 per cent believe they lead to a more motivated and satisfied workforce.
John Korzeniewski, regional director for the LSC in the North West, said: "These survey results confirm the significant benefits that employers gain from apprenticeships, from increased competitiveness and overall productivity to improved staff retention and motivation.
"The impressive return on employers' investment shows that apprenticeships are an excellent way to improve the bottom line, helping build the workforce employers need for future success.
n To find out more about apprenticeships, visit apprenticeships.org.uk or call the Apprenticeships employer helpline on 08000 150 400.
