Misinformation stopping local employers from hiring apprentices, says Devon College

Widespread misconceptions often shared on social media, is one reason why employers are reluctant to take on apprentices, warns South Devon College.

The Torbay based college recently launched its 100 Apprenticeships in 100 Days campaign, an urgent call to employers from across South Devon and Torbay to step forward and hire an apprentice.

Jack Faulkner, Degree Apprentice Engineer at Bay Photonics

The College currently has more than 200 young people who are ready to start an apprenticeship but not enough employers to offer work placements.

South Devon College apprenticeship specialist Paul Singer says comments like those shared on a LinkedIn discussion posted by a business in Wales highlights confusion over costs, time commitments and paperwork.

More than 500 people commented on the post with one claiming that it cost up to £30,000 a year to hire an apprentice. This misconception caused concern among employers on the professional networking site, but says Paul Singer, is not accurate.

Laurence Frewin Principal and CEO of South Devon College said, “This kind of misinformation is extremely damaging. Many employers do not realise that they pay no employer National Insurance for apprentices under 25, and that incentive payments are available. Apprentices can be one of the most cost effective hires a business makes.”

Other misconceptions highlighted in the LinkedIn post include worries about excessive paperwork. South Devon College supports employers throughout the process, including funding advice and compliance.

Employers also expressed concerns that apprentices take too long to become useful. Local companies disagree.

Richard Poustie, of Bay Photonics, said: “Apprenticeships allow us to train new team members directly in the company’s specific expertise, ensuring that skills are developed to our exact standards and processes rather than relying on generic industry experience.”

Richard Poustie Operations Manager at Bay Photonics

Another widespread misunderstanding is that apprenticeships are only suitable for low level or entry level roles.

“This isn’t the case,” points out Mr Frewin. “We offer a range of apprenticeships from Level 2 right up to Degree Apprenticeships, giving many opportunities for technical and managerial development.”

He says that if any local employer has any questions about the cost or the process of hiring an apprentice, they can call our specialist team at the College for help and advice.

“They can explain the facts clearly and help them make informed decisions,” explained Mr Frewin.

Employers who would like accurate information about apprenticeships can contact: employers|@sotuhdevon.ac.uk or visit  100 Apprenticeships in 100 Days - South Devon College