BCoT urges local businesses to utilise apprenticeships

BCoT is urging local businesses to utilise apprenticeships to upskill their employees and address workforce skills gaps.  As one of Hampshire's largest apprenticeship providers, BCoT offers programmes across diverse sectors, including construction, administration, HR, early years, accountancy, engineering, and hairdressing.

Over 1,700 apprentices have gained valuable experience and skills through BCoT apprenticeships in the past seven years. During Apprenticeships Week (February 10-16), the College is highlighting the benefits of Level 4 to 7 apprenticeships for both current employees and those seeking employment. These higher-level apprenticeships offer qualifications equivalent to university degrees, from foundation degrees to full bachelor's degrees.

"Apprenticeships are not just for school leavers," says Kathryn Howarth, Head of Apprenticeships & Work-based Learning at BCoT. "They are a powerful tool for organisations to train existing staff, fill new roles, and address skills shortages. They offer employees a chance to advance their careers while contributing to business growth."

While the Government's new Growth and Skills Levy is anticipated later this year, BCoT encourages businesses not to delay apprenticeship investments. The College believes the levy's impact on higher-level apprenticeships will be minimal. With Basingstoke's unemployment rate below the national average, and a significant portion of the working population having lower academic attainment, BCoT emphasises the importance of investing in skills development to drive higher-paying employment in the area.

BCoT currently offers over 30 apprenticeships (Levels 2-5) and plans to launch ten more, including Levels 6 and 7, this year. We also offer bespoke training plans tailored to individual company needs.

Oliver Greenwood, a Level 5 People Professional Apprentice at Vitacress Salads, exemplifies the benefits of apprenticeships. He joined Vitacress in 2019, progressed to HR Officer, and is now pursuing his apprenticeship at BCoT while working full-time. "This apprenticeship has broadened my perspectives and given me new skills I use daily," says Greenwood. "It's helped me increase my impact within the company and boosted my confidence."

Sarah Sturton, Vitacress Group HR Director, emphasises the company's commitment to apprenticeships, stating, "We've supported over 144 apprenticeships, enabling diverse individuals to grow their careers. Apprenticeships bring fresh ideas and energy, essential for a high-performance culture."

For more information about apprenticeships at BCoT, visit www.bcot.ac.uk/apprenticeships/