5 steps to develop an apprenticeship strategy linked to your business objectives

Posted on 27th June 2021 at 19:51

Since the introduction of the Apprenticeship Levy, apprenticeships are being discussed in the Board Room as well as in the Training Room. Whether you have been delivering apprenticeships for years or are new to apprenticeship training, they provide an opportunity to develop a long term, business-led apprenticeship strategy.

Employers and Learning and Development teams should follow a clear process to ensure that they get value for their business:

1. Consider your company objectives and how this fits with the wider HR strategy and Talent Strategy e.g

How will your business evolve in the next 5-10 years?

How is technology changing the way you engage with employees and customers?

What skills and behaviours will your team need to respond to these changes?

How do you plan to attract and retain the right skills/talent over the coming years?

2. Now that you’ve identified your key training and development needs, use your network and the Find Apprenticeship Training site to find training providers for initial discussions.

3. Create a 2-3 year plan for apprenticeships across your business to ensure you get value back from what you have paid in.

4. Select a provider or group of providers using a competitive tender process. The assessment criteria will be driven by your business priorities, but factors to consider include:

Learner achievement rates

Ofsted grade

Learner and Employer feedback (Find Apprenticeship Training)

Price

Additional services and innovation

Reporting and account management

Quality of the delivery team

Cultural fit with team

Options to tailor training and resources

Relevant employer case studies and references

5. Work with your provider(s) to plan marketing, roll out, content, value added services, account management and reporting.

We have worked with over 100 employers to support with the creation of their Apprenticeship Strategy. Contact us for free advice on using your levy.