Strengthening the workforce: How employers benefit from the new national apprentice wage
News
Added 14.03.24
From 1st April 2024, the National Minimum Wage, Living Wage and Apprenticeship Wage will increase.
The recent updates underscore the value of apprentices in the UK‘s increasingly dynamic workforce and the tangible benefits of employers, creating an environment that promotes training and development.
Enhanced National Apprentice Wage: Attracting Quality Talent
The increase in the national apprentice wage demonstrates a clear The increase in the national apprentice wage sends a positive message to employers about the government's recognition of apprentices' value and an acknowledgment of the significant role apprentices play within industries. Many of our partners already commit to paying above the minimum apprenticeship wage as by offering a competitive salary, businesses can attract his wage adjustment helps businesses attract a wider array of motivated and skilled individuals, elevating the calibre of their apprenticeship programmes and, consequently, their future workforce.
Moreover, paying apprentices a higher wage reflects well on the company's brand, showcasing it as a supportive and forward-thinking employer and creating a positive corporate culture that values growth and learning.
National Insurance Contribution Exemption: Direct Financial Benefits
One of the key financial incentives for employers, to hire through an apprenticeship scheme is exemption from paying National Insurance contributions for apprentices under the age of 25. This exemption offsets the wage increase, making it more economically feasible to hire and train apprentices by reducing their overall cost of employment. Employers can reinvest the savings from these National Insurance Exemptions back into their businesses, enhancing training or induction programmes, investing in learning for their current workforce or developing their future talent pipelines.
Apprenticeships as an Incentive: £1000 for every apprentice hired aged 16-18
The UK government also offers an £1,000 incentive to employers for each new apprentice they hire aged between 16 and 18. This incentive aims to encourage the employment of younger apprentices, facilitating early professional development and career progression. For employers, this bonus further offsets the costs associated with training and integrating apprentices into their businesses and provides motivation to invest in the youth and future of the industries they operate in.
The Bigger Picture: A Win-Win for Employers and the Economy
By investing in apprentices, organisations are not only cultivating a capable and motivated workforce but also committing to strategic investment: Organisations can enhance their competitive edge, bridging potential skills gaps to build a resilient, skilled, and competitive workforce, ready to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the future.