How to make the most of the Apprenticeship levy

As we speed towards two major landmarks in 2018’s apprenticeship calendar – National Apprenticeship Week in March, and the levy’s first birthday in April – many concerned parties are discussing the new system’s shortfalls.

Not only is there confusion around the levy and how it can be used, but the stigma surrounding apprenticeships is preventing mid-and senior-level employees from accessing valuable training funds to improve management and leadership skills.

According to new research from ILM, which looked at the training budgets and preferences of 1,000 UK HR decision makers, 58% of middle and senior managers would be unwilling to be seen as an apprentice, citing the “reputation and image” of apprenticeships (53%) and the implication it means they need additional support (41%) as the main reasons for this.

However, it’s worth taking a moment to consider the valuable opportunities that the apprenticeship system presents and understand how UK businesses, can benefit from the new system.