OLDHAM COLLEGE produces hundreds of amazing apprentices each year – and new incentives mean there will never be a better time to take on a new starter.
The Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, announced new cash incentives for employers in the 2021 Budget.
This means that until September 2021 employers can now receive £3,000 for each apprentice – whatever their age – on top of the £1,000 they can already receive for each hire.
Oldham College already has more than 800 apprentices across more than 600 local companies and results rank second in Greater Manchester. There are also around 150 ‘work ready’ candidates looking for firms to help them onto the career ladder because the coronavirus pandemic has seen many people’s plans and dreams put on hold.
Alun Francis, Principal and Chief Executive, explained: “These new government cash incentives are well timed because apprenticeship placements have become harder to find due to the uncertainty caused by Covid-19.
“Young people and adults seeking apprenticeships have been unfairly hurt by this – and yet their skills and development will be vital to the economic recovery.
“Apprenticeships give them the life-changing opportunity of hands-on experience and theoretical learning to get industry recognised qualifications and the skills employers really need.
“They also have a positive impact on the local economy and can really help businesses adapt and build after a difficult year by offering extra productivity, competitiveness and skills in a cost-effective manner.
“Increasing numbers of learners are starting to see college-based and apprenticeship pathways as the best route to high-skilled and fulfilling jobs – and that means we will also need even more opportunities with local employers.
“The Oldham College team is here and ready to help businesses every step of the way in recruiting the right person with minimum fuss and maximum benefit.”
Anyone interested in learning more about these new incentives and the benefits of apprenticeships should contact Linda Stokes, Employer Engagement and Recruitment Manager, by calling her on 0161 785 5450 or emailing Linda.Stokes@oldham.ac.uk