What is National Apprenticeship Week?

This nationally celebrated week is to recognise the impact of apprenticeships and the opportunities that the apprenticeship industry offers to the economy. This year, 2024, it is from the 5th of February to the 11th.

During the week there will be countless companies, schools and Training Providers getting involved and sharing content in line with the National Apprenticeship Week 2024 themes:

Monday: Apprenticeships Are Open To All!
Tuesday: Employer Tuesday
Wednesday: Apprentice Wednesday
Thursday: T Level Thursday
Friday: Celebration Friday
Saturday & Sunday: NAW Weekender

It’s a fantastic week and a great opportunity to learn more about the apprenticeship industry! Check out our NAW24 page here.

Make sure to follow us, EMA Training, on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook, to see how we make the most of NAW24!

What is an apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a fantastic way to start your career and start working full-time whilst still having the opportunity to learn and develop your skills. An apprenticeship allows you to receive top-level support whilst giving you the responsibility of a full-time employee.

Alongside on-the-job training, apprentices spend at least 20% of their working hours completing classroom-based learning with a Training Provider, like EMA Training, which leads to a nationally recognised qualification. An EMA apprenticeship teaches you both the theory (the academic side) and the practical experience you can only gain by working within an industry.

Are there different kinds of apprenticeships?

Yes! There are a vast number of apprenticeships available, ranging from Accountancy to Agriculture.

Within each different apprenticeship course, there are levels. Not every course will offer the entire range of levels, however, there will always be progression pathways available.

See the apprenticeship levels below:

Who can become an apprentice?

There will be different application requirements per course, for example, Level 3 courses
require 5 GCSE grades C/4 which must include Maths and English or an equivalent.

There will also be different requirements for different Training Providers. For example, here at EMA, you must hold a right to work in the UK and be able to commute to either our Derby or Nottingham Training Hub. You also cannot enrol on an EMA apprenticeship if you have completed a similar course elsewhere.

There is no such thing as ‘too old’ in the apprenticeship industry. As long as you’re over the age of 16, you can apply for any apprenticeship.

The apprenticeship journey

How do you apply for an apprenticeship?

There are a variety of ways you can apply for an apprenticeship, two popular options being through the Gov.uk website and Indeed. Apprenticeship vacancies are shared across various other job boards as well – it’s important to sign up to these to keep an eye out for the best opportunities! Apprenticeship Training Providers will also have their apprenticeship vacancies displayed on their websites, for example, EMA Training’s can be found here.

How do I know which course is best for me?

Here at EMA Training, our Recruitment Team supports candidates in deciding which course is best suited to them. They do this by getting to know the candidate’s personality, skillset, and ambitions during a thorough screening process. This process consists of a telephone interview, requesting information and checking qualifications. Through doing so, the team are then able to place that candidate onto the appropriate course for them and their career.

About EMA Training

EMA Training is an Apprenticeship Training Provider based in Derby and Nottingham City Centres. Founded in 2013, EMA has since provided specialised training in the delivery of high-quality apprenticeships.

EMA Training offers apprenticeship courses in Finance, IT, Digital, and Marketing. Each course has been put together by field experts, who ensure that apprentices will be learning the needed content but will also be able to use their learning in the work environment.

Working with Employers across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, EMA supports candidates across the East Midlands to secure fantastic apprenticeships.

Using a blended approach, EMA apprentices are taught through face-to-face, trainer-led delivery, and further supported by their Mentor outside of training sessions. EMA Training works hard to ensure all apprentices receive effective support throughout their apprenticeship to aid each apprentice in reaching their career goals.

If you would like to read more about EMA Training, please click here.

If you would like to see EMA’s Apprenticeship Vacancies page, please click here.

If you want to know more about EMA Training apprenticeships, email info@ematraining.co.uk.

EMA Training’s Multi-channel Marketer programme offers a unique and comprehensive approach to learning, particularly through its face-to-face training hub, distinguishing it from the predominantly online offerings of other institutions.

The Unmatched Value of In-Person Learning

In a landscape where digital dominates, EMA Training upholds the invaluable benefits of in-person learning. Our face-to-face training hub is not just a physical space but a dynamic learning environment where students interact directly with marketing professionals and make new relationships with like-minded peers. This direct engagement fosters a deeper, more nuanced understanding of marketing concepts, encourages lively discussions, and builds a supportive learning community.

A Holistic Educational Approach

EMA Training’s Multi-channel Marketer programme is  designed to include all facets of modern marketing. While digital is a big part of this comprehensive curriculum, the face-to-face delivery we offer at our training hub adds a vital dimension of the ‘personal touch,’ blending theoretical knowledge with practical, real-world scenarios’ and ensuring every single apprentice receives an engaged experience in a professional learning environment.

This balanced approach ensures that students are not just academically proficient but also industry-ready.

Cultivating Essential Skills

Beyond marketing techniques, our face-to-face delivery sessions emphasise the development of essential soft skills. Communication, teamwork, and critical thinking are at the heart of these interactions. These skills are crucial in any professional setting and are best nurtured in a collaborative, face-to-face environment. This approach not only builds professional competence but also instills confidence and adaptability in students.

Networking and Personalised Guidance

Our training hub serves as a bridge to the professional world. Students gain invaluable opportunities to network with industry experts and fellow aspiring marketers. These connections often lead to mentorship, internships, and opens the doors to future career opportunities. The personalised guidance and real-world insights provided by our experienced tutors are instrumental in shaping the professional outlook of our students.

A Future-Proof Career Foundation

Our Multi-channel Marketer programme is more than just an educational course; it’s a foundation for a future-proof career in marketing. The face-to-face training hub is a cornerstone of this journey, providing an immersive, interactive, and enriching learning experience that online courses simply cannot match.

Conclusion: A Step Towards a Brighter Future

As your child considers their next educational step, our Multi-channel Marketer programme stands out as a wise choice. The benefits of face-to-face learning, coupled with the unique advantages of our state of the art digital training hub, offers an unparalleled educational experience. It prepares apprentices not just for a job in marketing, but for a thriving, evolving career in a field that shapes the future of business and communication.

Explore multi-channel marketer with one of our experienced industry experts:  Sign up to one of our free webinar series happening on 27th November, right here.

Can’t make this session?  Why not fill out our online form (below) and one of our friendly EMA team will be in touch to offer you all the guidance and information you need.

The Evolving Digital Marketing Landscape

The digital marketing world is in a constant state of flux, with new channels, technologies, and consumer behaviors emerging regularly. This evolution demands a workforce that is not only skilled but also adaptable and forward-thinking. Multi-channel marketing apprentices bring fresh perspectives and are trained to navigate these changes effectively, keeping your business at the forefront of innovation.

Nurturing Young Talent: A Long-Term Investment

Investing in young talent through apprenticeships is more than just filling an immediate need – it’s about building the future of your company. These apprentices, equipped with the latest marketing techniques and digital know-how, grow alongside your business, adapting and contributing in ways that seasoned professionals might not. They are digital natives, innately understanding the online landscape, which is invaluable in today’s market.

The Competitive Edge of Multi-Channel Expertise

Multi-channel marketing is not just a buzzword; it’s a critical strategy for any business looking to thrive in the digital age. Apprentices trained in this discipline bring a holistic understanding of how different channels work together to create impactful campaigns. Their training in areas like SEO, content marketing, social media, and analytics equips them to contribute to a variety of marketing initiatives, offering a competitive edge to your business.

Cost-Effective Talent Development

Apprenticeships are a cost-effective way to develop talent. They allow you to mould enthusiastic learners into the exact kind of professionals your company needs. In addition, apprentices often bring a level of loyalty and commitment to the company that invested in their early career, reducing turnover and recruitment costs in the long run.  If you factor in training and development costs of a regular employee in comparison with the government funded training apprentices receive (to the very highest quality, delivered by our industry experts) it’s no wonder that so many businesses, large and small, are starting to explore apprenticeship opportunities for their existing and potentiality new employers.

Staying Ahead in a Digital-First World

In a world where digital is no longer an option but a necessity, having a team skilled in multi-channel marketing is crucial. Apprentices bring not just skills but also a digital-first mindset, ensuring that your marketing strategies resonate with today’s consumers and stay relevant in the future.

Conclusion: A Strategic Move for Future Success

Investing in multi-channel marketing apprentices is a strategic decision that benefits your company in the present and prepares it for future challenges. By nurturing this young talent, you’re not just filling a gap in your workforce; you’re building a team capable of driving your business forward in the ever-changing digital landscape. The question isn’t whether your company needs multi-channel marketing talent; it’s whether you can afford not to have it.

Want to educate yourself about new our Multi-channel Marketing apprenticeship programme, launching on 11th December?  Come along to one of our series of webinars, happening on 27th November.  You can get your free tickets here.

Cant’ make this date?  Just fill in our handy online form, below and one of our friendly team will get back to you with all the information you need!

Real Stories, Real Success

At EMA Training, we’ve seen firsthand how a career in multi-channel marketing can transform lives. Take, for example, the journey of Liberty, who started as an apprentice and has now carved a successful path in the industry. Lucy’s story highlights the practical skills and real-world experience gained through our programme

Louisa Hampson, Marketing Operations Lead at EMA Training, with 14 years of experience in the industry, including work with large commercial brands, shares her perspective: “In multi-channel marketing, you’re at the cutting edge of digital trends and strategies. Our apprentices gain not just skills but also a mindset to innovate and lead in this dynamic field, and we’re so excited to launch this course.”

The Apprentice Advantage

Our case studies reveal that starting as an apprentice in marketing offers a unique advantage.  Lucy, another EMA Training success story, reflects on how the apprenticeship provided a comprehensive understanding of the marketing landscape, setting a strong foundation for her career.

Making a Tangible Impact

The ability to see the results of your efforts is a key motivator in this field. Our Marketing Operations Lead, Louisa has a number of apprentices working in the marketing department, and comments on the impact to both the department and the apprentice:  “Working on projects that directly impact a brand’s success is not only rewarding but also a great learning experience. It’s about making a real difference and I have enjoyed seeing my apprentices grow in confidence with each new creative idea they bring to the table.”

Continuous Learning and Growth

The marketing world is ever-evolving, and our apprentices learn to adapt and grow continuously. This sentiment is echoed by Evie, a Content Creator Apprentice, who emphasises the importance of staying updated and embracing new challenges in her career journey.

Choosing a career in multi-channel marketing opens doors to a dynamic and fulfilling professional journey. The real-life stories from our apprentices at EMA Training underscore the practical skills, creative opportunities, and growth potential in this field. If you’re considering a path that combines innovation, strategy, and real-world impact, multi-channel marketing is an excellent choice.

We’re hosting a series of FREE webinars on 27th November!  Register for your place here and find out more about this brilliant new apprenticeship programme.

If you can’t make this date, why not fill out the below form to receive more information, and a member of our helpful team will be in touch with you.

A Pathway to a Promising Career

The digital marketing sector is burgeoning, and with it, the demand for skilled professionals. The Multi-channel Marketing Apprenticeship is designed to meet this demand, providing apprentices with a robust foundation in various marketing channels. It’s a career path that offers diversity, challenge, and the opportunity for continuous learning – key ingredients for long-term career satisfaction and growth.

Real Success Stories: From Learning to Leading

Hearing from those who’ve walked this path can be the most reassuring. Take, for example, the story of Lucy, a former apprentice who is now a Marketing Executive. Lucy’s journey through the apprenticeship programme saw her develop from a curious learner to a confident professional, managing her own projects and campaigns. Her success is a testament to the practical and comprehensive nature of the training provided and she has also progressed on to our prestigious Marketing Executive Level 4 apprenticeship, which is an natural step up for many of our apprentices.

Personal Growth Beyond the Classroom

What sets the Multi-channel Marketing Apprenticeship apart is its focus on holistic development. Apprentices like Alice not only gain technical skills but also develop soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. These skills are crucial in today’s workplace and contribute significantly to personal growth and confidence.  As a Training Provider, we are proud to have been recognised by Ofsted as being ‘Outstanding‘ when it comes to our focus on the Personal Development of all our apprentices, meaning that an EMA learner leaves their apprenticeship with more than just knowledge of their sector – they become well rounded young people, armed with core skills required to help them through life beyond the course.

A Supportive Learning Environment

At EMA Training, we understand the importance of a supportive learning environment. Our apprentices are mentored by industry professionals and receive guidance throughout their journey. This support system ensures that they are not just learning but also applying their knowledge effectively, setting them up for success in their future roles.

Testimonials That Speak Volumes

Parents of past apprentices often share how the programme has positively impacted their child’s career prospects and personal development. Comments like, “I’ve seen a remarkable change in my child’s confidence and professional skills,” or “The apprenticeship opened doors and opportunities we never thought possible,” are common feedback we receive.

Conclusion: A Step Towards a Bright Future

Choosing the Multi-channel Marketing Apprenticeship for your child is more than just selecting a course; it’s about investing in their future. It’s a decision that leads to a rewarding career filled with opportunities for growth and success. As a parent, you can be assured that this programme offers not just education but a pathway to a fulfilling and secure future for your child.

If you’d like to learn more about this EMAzing new course, we’re hosting a series of free webinars on 27th November.  Get your free tickets here.

Or, if you can’t make this event, why not contact us using the form below and one of our friendly team will be in touch.

Building on Proven Success

While the Multi-channel Marketer Programme is a new addition to our portfolio, it’s built on the foundation of our proven apprenticeship models. Let’s look at some success stories from our existing programmes to understand the potential impact of this new course.

Liberty’s Growth in Digital Marketing

Liberty, a standout apprentice from our Digital Marketer course at Pax8, exemplifies the kind of growth and adaptability we aim to foster. Her journey to a proficient digital marketer, adept in social media and email marketing, goes to highlight the effectiveness of our training approach, which will be further enhanced in the Multi-channel Marketer Programme.

Lucy’s Evolution in Marketing Strategy

Lucy’s transformation into a skilled Marketing Executive at Cosy Direct, through our Content Creator Level 3 programme, highlights the practical, hands-on learning we emphasize. Her experience in managing diverse marketing tasks, including data-driven strategy development, mirrors the comprehensive training that will be a cornerstone of the new Multi-channel Marketer Programme.

Evie’s Creative Impact in Content Creation

Evie’s role as a Content Creator showcases the diverse skill set our apprentices develop. Her ability to manage various content types and platforms is precisely what we aim to expand upon in the Multi-channel Marketer Programme, ensuring apprentices are well-versed in all facets of modern marketing.

What Sets the Multi-channel Marketer Programme Apart?

1.Broader Skill Development: The new programme will cover an extensive range of marketing channels and strategies, making apprentices versatile and adaptable.

2.Latest Industry Trends: We continuously update our curriculum to reflect the evolving digital marketing landscape, ensuring apprentices are industry-ready.

3.Real-World Application: Apprentices will gain hands-on experience, applying their skills in practical settings from the outset.

4.Long-Term Business Growth: Apprentices trained in your business environment can grow into roles that suit your long-term objectives, enhancing retention and internal talent development.

Conclusion: Embracing the Future of Digital Marketing

As we prepare to launch the Multi-channel Marketer Programme, we invite businesses to consider the strategic benefits of integrating these skilled apprentices into their teams. The success stories from our existing programmes are a testament to the value apprentices bring, and we are confident that this new course will set a new benchmark in digital marketing training.

For more information on the programme and how it can benefit your business, visit the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education. Join us in embracing this new era of digital marketing expertise.

Join our webinar and discover more about this EMA-zing apprenticeship programme:  Click here to get your free tickets to our webinar series, on 27th November.

Can’t make this?  Why not fill out the form below and get in touch with our friendly team to receive more information about multi-channel marketer.

Embark on a Journey of Digital Discovery

Prospective apprentices and innovative businesses are cordially invited to explore our diverse array of apprenticeship courses within the Digital, IT, and Creative sectors. From 1:30 pm to 4:00 pm, in scheduled time slots, EMA’s team of IT experts will showcase their new environment and state-of-the-art equipment.

Evolve with Cutting-Edge Education

The fair will spotlight EMA’s Work Simulated Environment—a groundbreaking approach designed to immerse IT apprentices in a real-world enterprise network. This hands-on experience ensures apprentices are not just prepared for the future but are actively shaping it.

A Curriculum Crafted for the Future

EMA’s evolved IT curriculum allows apprentices to work towards prestigious qualifications, including:

• Level 3 Information Communication Technician which includes Microsoft MS-900 and AZ-900 certifications.
• Level 3 Digital Support Technician which includes Microsoft MS-900 and AZ-900 certifications and ITIL v.4 foundation level.
• Level 4 Network Engineer a more advanced qualification that includes AZ-104  and Cisco Certified Network Associate certifications.

Creative and Marketing Mastery

Not only does our IT & Digital Careers Fair focus on IT careers, but it also shines a light on the creative side of digital technology. Attendees will have the chance to delve into Content Creation, Digital Marketing, and Marketing Executive courses, showcasing the fusion of tech-savviness and creativity.

From Apprentices to Advocates

Hear firsthand accounts from current apprentices who will share their experiences and the impact of EMA’s creative and digital courses on their careers. These stories will provide invaluable insights into the real-world benefits of joining our forward-thinking community.

Be Part of the Tech Evolution

EMA’s event is a call to action for those who refuse to be left behind in the technological dust—affectionately dubbed dinosaurs. It’s an invitation to step boldly into the modern world of tech, armed with the knowledge and skills offered by an evolved IT curriculum.

For further details, remember to grab your free ticket HERE and follow us on our socials for real-time updates if you can’t make this one.

Don’t let this transformative opportunity pass you by. Mark your calendar for 3rd November and be a part of the #ITEvolved movement at EMA’s Digital Training Hub.

How do IT apprenticeships support progression?

Here at EMA Training, we have designed our apprenticeship courses to be the ideal stepping stone for young professionals eager to start or develop their careers. Do you have a passion for problem-solving and like working in a team? Your skills can come in handy in helping solve customer IT challenges or acting as the go-to IT support for your colleagues.

Our Information Communications Technician (ICT) course is a fantastic example of this. This course has been created by industry experts, ensuring that apprentices are not only learning the necessary skills for their course but also skills that will excel in their careers.

Led by the same industry experts, our ICT apprenticeship course is delivered through face-to-face training from our high-tech Digital Training Hub. This teaching approach allows apprentices to build their social skills, alongside their technical skills, in a modern, collaborative facility.

Why are these skills important for a career in IT?

The EMA team take the responsibility of apprentice progression seriously. We want to impact the lives of every apprentice that steps through our doors, readying them for their career ahead. Our team work hard to ensure apprentices not only know the answers to the questions, and can pass their exams, but that they’re good people, an asset to a team, a valued individual. In 2022, our efforts were recognised, and EMA received a ‘Good’ Ofsted grade, with ‘Outstanding’ for Personal Development. Read all about this, here.

In our eyes, this is important in any and every industry. But let’s talk specifics…
Many of our ICT apprentices work as Helpdesk Technicians, supporting internal teams, and external clients and heavily relying on their communication skills to do so. Alongside communication, our Trainers and Mentors upskill their apprentices in problem-solving and critical thinking; skills that support the growth of an IT Technician.

What do we mean when we say industry-relevant skills?

To put it simply: skills that apprentices will use in the workplace to fulfil their job role.

Our ICT course is accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, a globally recognised awarding body, and aligns with the leading industry skills framework.
Let’s break this down!

The ICT course is made up of 6 modules:

Information Communication Technician Core Knowledge

Introduction to IT & Networking

Introduction to Server Management

Introduction to Network Security

Fundamentals of Cloud Services

Scripting languages for IT practitioners

Read more about the modules here.

Apprentices will progress through the modules, developing an understanding of the different subject areas within the IT industry. Starting with ‘Information Communication Technician Core Knowledge’, is designed to challenge apprentices, encouraging quick-thinking and efficient problem-solving.

ICT Apprentice, Brandon Hotter, shared, “My knowledge around ICT has greatly increased alongside my apprenticeship and I am now more confident. As this has happened, my role responsibilities have also grown; I have access to more systems and more tasks to action.”

Soon to progress onto the Level 4 Network Engineer apprenticeship course, Brandon reflected on his ICT Level 3; “A highlight from the course has been creating a script to decrease disk space throughout a shared server so that it doesn’t cause problems when people reach their disk limit. It was a good learning experience and part of my final project.”

The apprenticeship course has been a brilliant support to the development of Brandon’s career. Our team have enjoyed watching Brandon flourish: his Apprenticeship Mentor Holly shared, “Brandon has been a model apprentice since becoming a Learner! Eager to learn, an efficient, hard worker, and overall, a joy to support.”

Is this the right course for you?

Our ICT apprenticeship course could be just what you’re looking for!

If you have a passion for IT and all things tech, this course is a great opportunity to turn that passion into a career. Our brilliant Recruitment Team will support you in finding a fantastic Employer to take you on! Check out our latest vacancies here: https://www.ematraining.co.uk/vacancies/

Check out some of our IT & Digital case studies:
ICT Technician, Josh Mills
Digital Support Technician, Ruby Birks 

Are you already in your IT career, looking to upskill? This course is also a great option for you!
You can continue working under your current employer, carrying out your day-to-day job role, but developing your skillset and working towards a nationally recognised qualification.
Interested? Get in touch with our team today: https://www.ematraining.co.uk/contact-us/

Further Information

If you would like any further information regarding our apprenticeship courses, please explore our website www.ematraining/courses.co.uk

Or contact the team today at info@ematraining.co.uk

All companies are seeking to optimise their recruitment cost and surely yours isn’t any different in that respect. A simple but effective way to help with this is to be conscious of an apprenticeship levy and know how you can use it to your advantage.

First things first, let’s get you up to speed with understanding what an apprenticeship levy is. In simple terms, an apprenticeship levy is a tax that is applied to fund apprenticeship training.

If your company’s annual pay bill is over £3 million, then 0.5% of wages over the 3 million threshold needs to be paid in taxes. This is a government scheme that was introduced in 2017 to try and incentivise companies to implement apprenticeships into their workforce. The main objectives for the apprenticeship implementation were to tackle youth unemployment levels and contribute towards the upskilling of current employees within an organisation. The benefit to the government here is a strengthened economy.

Even if you’ve not got the resources right now to afford the wages of new employees, then you could focus on consolidating and strengthening current employees within your hierarchy. By retraining and retaining them via an apprenticeship that’s based on upskilling, it would help to grow your company. Later down the line, this can help to put you in to a position where you have more resources to expand your workforce because of structural strengthening. We at EMA Training can help you to define and tailor a strategy to your company’s specific growth goals.

The 0.5% of the 3 million pay bill levy compounds and creates your own accumulated money pool which you can use to contribution towards your apprentices training costs. Companies who are above the threshold must contribute to the levy either way which therefore makes hiring an apprentice a no brainer! If you’re a large company, then you’re already contributing towards the cause, therefore why not reap the rewards?

Your financial pool rolls over and allows you two years to utilise it however if it’s not spent within this period, then the government will take it back on a monthly basis. This would be via a levy account which is basically a holding account between the government and your company.

For companies that are over this 3 million threshold, you can hire as many apprentices without incurring extra training costs granted that your levy account can accommodate this. For example, if your companies pay bill is 5 million then 0.5% of anything over 3 million (2 million surplus in this case) is available for you to use to pay for an apprentices training. 0.5% of 2 million is £10,000 therefore if the training expenses for the apprentice is £10,000, then you wouldn’t have to pay a 5% training contribution which in this instance would have equated to £500 if there wasn’t enough in the levy account.

Either way, £500 training fees for an apprentice that you can mould into your company’s own is an extraordinarily good deal. The best part about the apprenticeship levy is that the larger your annual pay is, the more apprentices basically pay for themselves. You could potentially hire or retrain many apprentices without experiencing any training related drawdown.

As for smaller companies, you’d be benefiting too because you’ll still be striking a great bargain even though you’re not obligated to pay the 0.5% levy. Whatever size your company is, you can still take advantage of the apprenticeship scheme!

Companies under the 3 million threshold incur slightly different charges depending on their specific situation. If your organisation employs less than 50 employees, then apprentices aged 16-18 will not incur you any extra charges regarding their training/ skill learning, your only financial obligation in this instance will be to pay them their apprentice wage. Still on the topic of companies with less than 50 employees, if your apprentice is aged 19 or over, then there would be a 5% training contribution, but the rest of the fees will pay funded by the government.

If you employ more than 50 people but are still under the 3 million threshold, then both 16-18 and 19+ year olds will require a 5% training contribution. Again, the government will fund the other 95% of the apprentices training fees.

After reading all the benefits above, it’s hard to not consider the idea of an apprentice in whichever format best suits your current needs. Even if there are training costs involved, they are minimal due to the contribution fees only being a maximum of 5%. Whether you’re a large-scale company or have less than 50 employees and whether you want to hire a new apprentice or retrain someone internally, you would be benefiting enormously.

For more details about apprenticeship levies or if you’re interested in hiring an apprentice/ retaining a current member of your team, feel free to enter your email address below and we’ll get back to you.

Best regards,

EMA Training

Here at EMA Training, we are dedicated to helping young people to excel in digital careers through apprenticeships.

UKNT reported that “81% of UK bosses say the digital skills gap is hurting business”.
There is no denying that the digital skills gap is having a negative impact on business performance.

High demand for Software Developer jobs has seen average salaries increase to a whopping £50,000 (according to Reed.co.uk) causing businesses to lose skilled staff due to competitive wage increases. As we struggle to retain experienced employees, even those fuelled by passion and an eagerness to learn, how can you bridge the skills gap in your business?

Attracting new talent or upskilling on our Software Development course is just one of the ways you can help your business bridge the digital skills gap. This article identifies the top benefits of hiring a Software Development Apprentice for your business so you can make an informed decision.

1. Futureproof your workforce by nurturing new digital talent

Hiring an apprentice into your team is a fantastic opportunity to mould a talented individual to suit your business needs. Not only does it create clear employee progression paths to aid with employee continuation planning, but it also supports your staff retention plans. One study found that a huge 85% of apprentices stay in employment, and 64% of these continue working with the same employer, (According to Simply Academy).

What kind of candidate can you expect?

Whilst no candidate is the same, we can guarantee this – a genuine interest in Software Development! The candidates that apply to EMA Training often have some impressive self-taught skills in their toolkit.

We have candidates who have:

• Build out the front end of a website using HTML, CSS & JavaScript
• Coded the backend of a website using PHP.
• Created small programmes using Python, as part of a computing/computer science course.
• Altered code on a computer game.

We work with you to create a job description to meet your business needs and advertise your vacancy across our platforms. We provide suitable candidates that meet your needs and the candidate’s needs.

Software Developer Apprentice, George shared, “Thanks to EMA’s connections I have landed a software development apprenticeship at a company with opportunities to travel, great benefits, an inclusive team and the course is taught by a very knowledgeable teacher!”

An apprentice can be everything listed, and more, if you are ready to invest and are willing to make time to develop your apprentice. Apprentices receive training through government-funded apprenticeship programmes with professional certification programmes embedded giving them instant access to the digital world whilst you inject new skills into your business! You have the flexibility to choose the certifications your apprentices do to tailor to your individual business needs (more on this further down in this article).

2. Utilise Government-funding and reduce your National Insurance contributions to hire new talent or upskill existing team members

Did you know you can access government funding to hire an apprentice or upskill your existing team members? You may also be exempt from paying National Insurance Contributions for staff under the age of 25.

Our apprenticeship courses are led by industry experts and developed to equip apprentices with a range of skills to support their growth within their chosen industry. Our Software Development course is a fantastic example of this.

With detailed training, apprentices are consistently developing new skills which support them in the workplace. New learning is always in line with course requirements, and Trainers further personalise the learning to ensure it is relevant to the workplace which supports the apprentices to be able to take on responsibility confidently.

Our Software Development course is led through a blended approach, ensuring apprentices have the opportunity to attend EMA’s Digital Training Hub for hands-on, interactive training sessions, whilst also benefitting from the flexibility of remote learning through the innovative use of technology We truly value face-to-face training and believe it’s a brilliant way to engage apprentices and create an effective learning environment. We also embrace technology and flexibility, which is why our software training sessions are delivered partially online and partially from our Digital Training Hub.

Starting with ‘Introduction to Systems Analysis and Design’, the Software Development course covers in detail important modules that will aid an apprentice in consolidating new learning and support them in taking these new skills into the workplace. The course consists of five modules, all designed to suit the needs of the developing skillset of a Software Developer. These are:

• Introduction to Systems Analysis and Design
• Introduction to Web Development
• Introduction to OOP (Object Oriented Programming)
• Software Development Concepts
• Database Design Concepts

Alongside these, your apprentice will receive training in line with the following certifications, further enhancing their software development knowledge.

This image shows the 6 IT certifications which are part of the Software Development course.
1. Software development
2. HTML and CSS
3. Javascript
4. Python
5. Java
6. Databases

3. Attract new, innovative ideas to support business growth and succession plans

Attracting new talent to your business will bring in new ways of working and ideas, enabling you to innovate against your competition. Hiring a software developer apprentice will provide your Senior Developers the opportunity to pass down highly favoured skills and knowledge, allowing them time to further progress their own careers.

Investing in an software developer apprentice at little to no cost is a chance to better your business from the inside – out, it is an opportunity to introduce a clear succession plan to your team, enabling Senior members to develop their own teams.

How much time investment is required?

The apprenticeship duration is 15 months, and the line manager will be required to support the learner on a day-to-day basis and be available to attend review calls every 6-8 weeks.

Whilst there may be a productivity dip for the line manager initially, the business will benefit from being able to delegate the more menial duties to the apprentice once onboarded, freeing the line manager up to focus on more technical projects.

It is time to end the myth that apprentices are unskilled employees who will only eat up your spare time and resources. Apprentices bring new ideas, a developing skillset, and add value to a business. 86% of Employers say that apprentices helped to develop relevant skills for the organisation and to fill the digital skills gap.

Invest in your business, invest in an apprentice!

We are now enrolling our April Cohort, and we would hate for you to miss out.

1. Read more about the Software Development course, and download the course brochure:

https://www.ematraining.co.uk/courses/software-development-technician-apprenticeship/

2. Hear from our Employers:

Should you hire an apprentice | Derby City Council | EMA Training

What Employers want from an Apprentice & advice for future Employers

3. Talk to a member of our team today for further information and advice:

Useful resources:

https://www.ematraining.co.uk/employers/what-is-an-apprenticeship/

https://www.ematraining.co.uk/employers/an-employers-guide-to-apprenticeships/

References:

https://www.uktech.news/growth-strategy/digital-skills-gap-hurting-business-2022100

Q1. Please introduce yourself, the company you work for and the nature of your business.

My name is Harry Jones, I am the Global Head of Recruitment and Talent at Bam Boom Cloud, based in Derby. We are a global tech company that provides Microsoft solutions to small to medium-sized businesses. The goal is to remove old IT headaches and provide them with systems and support along the way.

Q2. Please list the role of the apprentice(s) you have along with the name of their apprenticeship programme(s).

Our apprentice roles are:

• 1^st line support engineer – Information Communications Technician level 3
• 1^st line Dynamics support – Digital support technician level 3
• Finance assistant – Assistant accountant level 3
• Digital marketer – Digital Marketer level 3 progressed onto Marketing Executive Level 4

Q3. Why did your business decide to employ an apprentice?

The decision to go down the apprenticeship route was all about building our next generation within Bam Boom Cloud. We wanted to upskill the team as soon as they step foot into the business and also give young people the chance to work in a thriving and growing environment, building careers for themselves.

Q4. What kind of skills do you look for in a candidate during an interview

I look for the drive and determination to want to build a career. If someone is passionate enough about their future, they will put in the time and effort when it comes to learning on the job. I also look for communication skills, the ability to talk over the phone and face-to-face is so important to the nature of this business so it’s key to possess that skill. Finally, someone who can have a laugh, we don’t interview formally here, it doesn’t fit our culture. We want to make sure that whoever we take on will be a great cultural fit for our team as well as the organisation. That’s why we always try to have a laid-back interview process to allow the apprentice to really come out of their shell.

Q5. What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship within the industry you work in?

Keep learning. Within IT you can never stop learning. Digital software will always change so being able to proactively look at solutions no matter what the role is important to be successful in this industry.

Also, remember there will always be stepping stones when you first start out. Majority of the time you will start out as a junior support engineer. Don’t get disheartened as this is the way you learn the software and learn our customers. The progression will always be there for those who show determination to want to succeed. We have so many success stories from apprenticeships and can’t wait to make more.

Q6. What impact has an apprentice made on your company?

Not only have apprentices changed the dynamic of our company, but our digital marketer has also completely overhauled our social media, making it their own and being able to put Bam Boom Cloud on the map through different platforms.

Our support staff have shown what amazing customer service looks like, being nominated for awards within the apprenticeship customer support categories.

Not only that, but it makes the job of recruitment easier and more fun, working with apprentices, showing them the growth potential and watching them bloom into the next generation of senior members of staff is definitely a highlight of my role.

Q7. Why do you think apprenticeships are a good option for someone starting a new career?

For me, it’s a no-brainer. If I had the opportunity when I was younger to do it then I would definitely start out as an apprentice. You learn on the job, you are able to get into large organisations that will help you grow and succeed, all whilst being paid. No flaws to it in my eyes.

Q8. What advice would you give to another Employer considering hiring an apprentice?

Don’t expect experience. Recruit for culture fit rather than experience, as the personality of someone will definitely make it easier to mould that apprentice into a more senior position in the future. Also, before taking on apprentices, make sure there is a fully set up onboarding training plan and support system. Without this, the apprentices will be lost in the role and will struggle to really settle into the position.

If you’re interested in growing your team and hiring an apprentice, get in touch with our team:

📨 info@ematraining.co.uk
📞 01332 371666

Hear from other Employers:
Sarah, from Derby City Council, talks all things apprenticeships:

Neil, from Purpose Media, shares his experience and some great advice: