In an effort to increase employment and training opportunities across the country, the Education & Skills Funding Agency have announced an extension to the apprenticeship program.
If you have employed an apprentice from the 1st of August 2020 or plan to take on one before the 31st March 2021, you have until the 30th April 2021 to apply for extra funding.
The fitness and leisure industry has been one of the hardest-hit industries during the Coronavirus pandemic. UKactive estimates that more than £90 million in lost revenue each week of a lockdown.
Adaptive measures using bubbles and online exercise has shown the industries capacity to adapt to the new normal. An apprentice, however, could be another positive step toward supporting your business through this period.
For apprentices aged:
- 16 to 24, employers will receive £2,000
- 25 and over, employers will receive £1,500
Currently, the incentive program stands at between £1500 to £2000 per apprentice paid directly into your business for at least a year of training. The impact, however, is far larger, with 80% of business finding that having an apprentice increased their productivity and plugged skills gaps.
You can use the payment to support your business in a variety of ways, from kits, to travel or supplementing an apprentice salary.
Find out more
Check out the UK Government website here for more information about eligibility
