By Megan Pledger, Business Development Executive
One of the key concerns for employers considering apprenticeships is understanding the time commitment involved. In this blog post, I’ll break down what you can expect in terms of time investment when you take on an apprentice.
Balancing Work and Training: Apprenticeships are designed to blend on-the-job training with off-the-job learning. Typically, an apprentice will spend 80% of their time on work-related activities and 20% on training, which can be flexible to suit your business needs. At The College of Animal Welfare we work closely with employers to ensure this balance is effective and beneficial.
Duration of Apprenticeships: The length of an apprenticeship can vary depending on the level and field. Our apprenticeships at CAW are tailored to ensure learners gain the essential skills and experience without extending beyond the necessary timeframe and typically last between 12 months and 2 years.
Mentoring and Supervision: As an employer, you’ll need to provide supervision and mentoring to your apprentice. This includes regular check-ins and support to ensure they’re meeting their learning objectives and integrating well into your team. The investment in mentorship pays off in terms of employee loyalty and skill development.
Assessment and Reviews: Periodic assessments are a part of the apprenticeship process. These can be in the form of appraisals, practical assessments, or exams, depending on the apprenticeship standard. CAW assists in preparing both the apprentice and the employer for these assessments, ensuring they are a seamless part of the apprenticeship journey.
Long-Term Benefits: While there is a time commitment involved in taking on an apprentice, the long-term benefits are significant. Apprentices can fill skills gaps, bring new perspectives, and grow to become integral members of your team. The time invested in training an apprentice often results in a highly skilled and loyal employee.
Support from CAW: At CAW, we understand the importance of balancing time commitments for businesses. We offer support and guidance throughout the apprenticeship, helping to streamline the process and reduce any unnecessary time burdens on your team.
Conclusion: Taking on an apprentice is a commitment, but it is one that comes with substantial rewards. The time invested in training and mentoring an apprentice can transform into valuable contributions to your business. If you’re looking to develop skilled professionals tailored to your business needs, partnering with CAW for apprenticeships is a step in the right direction.
Get in Touch: If you’re interested in learning more about how CAW can support your apprenticeship journey, please reach out. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
You can get in touch via email at mpledger@caw.ac.uk or by phone at 01480 422060