Apprenticeship levy to help smaller businesses

Southampton City Council has announced an apprenticeship levy transfer scheme to help employers invest in high-quality training for their employees. 

The local authority will work with other companies by supporting them to take on new apprentices and develop the skills of existing employees.

They said that the apprenticeship levy could be worth thousands of pounds to business because of the long-term growth benefits that it will bring.

Up to 25% of the funds will be used for small to medium-sized businesses and businesses have until December 13 to apply for the funding.

The council has also said that the opportunity is relevant to all organisations, with funds available for over 500 different apprenticeships such as Business Administration, Payroll, Team leading & Management, some of which include embedded degrees and professional qualifications in addition to new skills and knowledge.

This will give priority to organisations supporting council objectives around health, social care, children’s care, education, a green economy and a city of culture.

With the support of the Solent Apprenticeship Hub, individuals will need to be registered on the apprenticeship service, they will only be able to use the funds for training and assessment for apprenticeship standards and also only use the funds for training and assessment of either new apprentices or existing employees undertaking apprenticeships

Cabinet Member for aspiration, schools and lifelong learning at Southampton City Council, Dr Darren Paffey said: ‘The levy transfer scheme provides vital support for small to medium-sized businesses considering proving apprenticeships for new or existing members of staff.’

‘Apprenticeships are an ideal way of developing your career, combining work-based experience with training.’

‘Apprentices gain nationally-recognised qualifications, whilst earning a salary.’

‘Employers get access to local talent by taking on apprentices, or can improve the skills of an existing employee by offering them an apprenticeship.’

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