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| Stephen with apprentices from Selex ES |
Local MP Stephen Metcalfe is calling for more local
businesses in South Basildon and East Thurrock to take on an apprentice after
new research reveals the many benefits of doing so.
The research shows that every time a local company hires
an apprentice, their bottom line gets an average boost of £2,009. This happens
immediately, while the apprentice is being trained, and represents the benefit
after typical wage and training costs for the East of England are deducted.
Last year, 890 people started an apprenticeship in South
Basildon and East Thurrock. This means that new apprentices alone provided a
local boost of around £1,788,000 in 2012/13.
The number of apprentices has been increasing rapidly.
Despite this, surveys show that 60% of small businesses are missing out because
they don’t know enough about how apprenticeships work. Many assume that they
are difficult to administer and will involve a short-term cost.
The new research was commissioned by AAT, which has
pioneered apprenticeships in accounting. Non-traditional areas like accounting
now make up the majority of apprenticeships, demonstrating the huge expansion
in the range and types available.
The Chief Executive of AAT, Jane Scott Paul, welcomed the
news: “I am delighted that Stephen Metcalfe MP is encouraging more companies to
employ an apprentice. Far from being a cost, apprentices bring benefits
straight away.
“It’s really important that employers know there are
apprenticeships for all shapes and sizes, including those in non-traditional
sectors like accounting and law. That’s
how apprentices boosted UK firms by £1.8 billion last year.”
The Prime Minister, David Cameron, said: “Delivering the
best skills is a crucial part of our long-term economic plan for Britain. More
apprenticeships mean more opportunities for young people, giving them financial
security and Britain a better future.”
Commenting, Stephen Metcalfe MP said: “If they don’t have
one already, every local business in South Basildon and East Thurrock should
consider employing an apprentice.
“By giving young people a chance, they will also be
boosting their bottom line. The benefit here of £1.8m has made a real
difference to the local economy, and that’s just from apprentices who began
last year.
“Apprenticeship numbers have now doubled, with the
Government making it a key priority. It’s great news for each local apprentice,
great for our businesses and great for growth.”
