Maximising Workforce Development

Apprenticeships have long been recognised as a cornerstone of the UK’s workforce development strategy. They offer a unique combination of on-the-job training and academic learning, equipping individuals with the skills and experience necessary to succeed in their chosen careers. This case study explores the advantages of apprenticeships at Kura, emphasises the importance of increasing participation, and highlights the use of the FWDF (Flexible Workforce Development Fund).

We launched our first year of apprenticeship programmes, including its inaugural Digital Marketing apprentice. Additionally, this marks the first year Kura has accessed the FWDF in Scotland, which is available to employers who pay the apprenticeship levy.

Methodology

Research for this case study was conducted using resources available on the internet and specific websites such as Apprenticeships.scot and the official Apprenticeships website.

Benefits of Apprenticeships:

Skill Development

Apprenticeships are highly valued for providing practical, job-specific skills directly contributing to career development. According to statistics, 86% of apprentices acknowledge gaining skills crucial to their professional growth.

Ryan, currently engaged in the apprenticeship program at Kura, highlights the practical application of his learning: “I am applying everything I’ve learned in my role, from effective copywriting to market analytics and customising content for diverse audiences.”

Increased Productivity

Employers benefit significantly from increased productivity attributed to apprenticeships. Statistics indicate a 12% rise in production output, driven by fresh skills and talent infusion into the workforce. This boost underscores the operational efficiency gained from a motivated and skilled team.

Ryan’s manager notes the tangible impact: “Ryan’s work output has noticeably improved since he started the apprenticeship, allowing him to showcase his capabilities effectively.”

Improved Employee Retention

Apprenticeships contribute to higher employee retention rates, which are crucial for reducing recruitment and training costs. Companies benefit from a stable and committed workforce with an 85% retention rate among apprentices compared to 60% for non-apprentice employees.

Ryan expresses his post-apprenticeship aspirations: “After completing my apprenticeship, I aim to secure a permanent role as a Communications Coordinator.”

Cost Savings

Apprenticeships offer substantial cost savings, with a reported 30% reduction in recruitment and training expenses. By nurturing their talent pipeline, companies can save significantly on external hiring and onboarding costs.

Ryan’s apprenticeship, facilitated by QA, includes dedicated support from a manager and a coach, ensuring ongoing guidance and development throughout the program.

Enhanced Employee Satisfaction

Structured training and development opportunities through apprenticeships significantly boost employee satisfaction. Statistics reveal that 90% of apprentices report higher job satisfaction than their peers, highlighting the program’s positive impact on morale and engagement.

Ryan shares his enthusiasm: “I’m thoroughly enjoying the apprenticeship experience and eagerly anticipate upcoming courses.”

Diversity and Inclusion

Apprenticeships catalyse enhancing diversity within the workforce. Statistics indicate a 15% increase in the recruitment of female apprentices and individuals from underrepresented communities. Ryan, who is autistic, praises the support received from both suppliers and line managers, ensuring a program that accommodates his needs. This commitment to diversity aligns with corporate social responsibility goals and fosters a more inclusive workplace culture at Kura.

Conclusion

The case study illustrates how Kura apprenticeships develop essential skills and increase productivity and contribute to cost savings, higher employee satisfaction, and a more inclusive workplace. These benefits underscore the value of apprenticeship programs in fostering a skilled, motivated, and diverse workforce poised for long-term success.

Our first apprentice serves as a communications coordinator while pursuing the SQCF Level 6 in Digital Marketing, a role he finds immensely fulfilling.

To support our apprenticeship initiative, we’ve established a dedicated space on our intranet, The Bridge, under the Lead and Inspire OD page. Here, comprehensive guides provide essential information and support for both apprentices and their line managers.

Regular quarterly reviews assess the progress of apprentices, their line managers, and our suppliers. These reviews ensure alignment with learning objectives and provide opportunities for feedback and improvement.

We publish regular blogs on The Bridge focused on apprenticeships to enhance awareness and celebrate achievements. These updates generate interest and inform the entire business about the successes of our apprenticeship programme and the benefits of the FWDF (Flexible Workforce Development Fund).

Exploring Additional Apprenticeships

Looking ahead, Kura sees potential in expanding apprenticeship opportunities to include fields such as Customer Service, Business Administration, Financial Services, IT (Hardware and System Support), Payroll, Accounting, and Data Analytics. These programmes aim to develop our workforce further and meet evolving business needs.

FWDF Success: Excel Training

Recently, we completed two Intermediate Excel and two Advanced Excel courses under the FWDF initiative with 35 participants. Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the courses as informative and practical. Many participants found the training beneficial for improving client reports, operational packs, and dashboard reporting. The unanimous recommendation of these courses by attendees underscores their value in enhancing skills directly applicable to our day-to-day operations.

Kura’s commitment to apprenticeships and ongoing training initiatives through the FWDF demonstrates our dedication to fostering talent, enhancing skills, and driving continuous improvement across our organisation.

This study illustrates the substantial benefits of apprenticeships to Kura and its clients. Introducing our first apprentice as a communications coordinator has increased productivity, improved employee retention, significant cost savings, and enhanced employee satisfaction. These outcomes positively impact our company’s contribution to its long-term sustainability and growth.

Apprenticeships remain indispensable in addressing skills gaps, fostering workforce development, and nurturing a culture of lifelong learning in the UK. Kura’s experience exemplifies how apprenticeships can enrich employers and employees, underscoring their critical role in the UK’s workforce strategy.

From advancing skill development and achieving cost efficiencies to boosting productivity and promoting diversity, apprenticeship programs have positively influenced Ryan’s career progression and our organisation’s overall success.

We are committed to leveraging the FWDF, enabling us to continue addressing priority skills and gaps within Kura by creating tailored training programs catering to employees of all ages and skill levels.