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I attended the low key launch of the housing apprentiship in London, taking place during National Apprentiship week. I hope this route does get consideration by those in housing as they are a way of trying to bring people into housing and into a career. The government is giving grants to employers to take on apprentices; the grant is about half the money the employer would be paying out. Apprentices will be at work four days a week and in the class room learning for the other day.
So what does the employer get from all of this? Remember, apprenticeships are not restricted to 16 and 17 year olds – they are for anyone. The employer will get someone who is fresh to housing, being trained in more than just the basics, so they will be able to do a good job. Apprentices are there to work and learn. Think about the benefits in training someone. It means you are thinking about what you do and why. The apprentice will be attending class with others; a great chance to find out what others are doing as well. In terms of existing staff, consider the benefits of existing staff acting as mentors and coaches. It will give the opportunity for staff to develop and practice these skills which will benefit the organisation as a whole.
And at the end of the two years, you may just have someone you really want to keep on!
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