10/02/2025

By offering structured training, mentorship, and clear career development pathways, employers can reduce turnover, foster long-term commitment, and build a dedicated workforce. In fact, a report by the Skills Funding Agency found that 80 per cent of companies investing in apprenticeships experienced an increase in staff retention.

These programmes provide a framework where employees receive hands-on experience while learning the theoretical aspects of their roles. This blend ensures that apprentices are well-equipped to meet the specific needs of the company. Moreover, the mentorship inherent in apprenticeship programmes allows seasoned professionals to impart knowledge, fostering a culture of continuous learning and collaboration.

Emily Rock, CEO of the Association of Apprentices (AoA), emphasises the multifaceted benefits for businesses:

“For employers, apprenticeships help to attract diverse talent, and they help them to train in skills that are directly applicable to their workplace. It also helps them to retain talent — and if you’re an employer facing critical skills shortages or high vacancy rates, to be able to have a loyal and committed workforce is really important.”

By investing in apprenticeships, businesses demonstrate a commitment to the professional growth of their employees. Clear progression routes within the company encourage apprentices to envision a long-term future with their employer. This investment in the workforce not only enhances individual skill sets but also aligns employee aspirations with organisational goals.

Reducing turnover and fostering commitment

Employees who feel valued and see opportunities for advancement are more likely to remain loyal to their employers. In fact, 69 per cent of employers report that employing apprentices improved staff retention, and 65 per cent of apprentices stay with the company that trained them upon completing their apprenticeship.

Key to this enhanced experience is providing support and mentorship to the apprentice, fostering their personal and professional development, as well as offering well-being support, says Emily Rock:

“Apprentices tell us the main challenges with their apprenticeships are work-life balance, time management, and administration-related tasks around their apprenticeships, so it’s really important we lean into some of those challenges to create programmes that help support some of those things… because if we don’t, it’ll lead to poor experiences.”

Dhimple Patel, a Registered Nurse Degree Apprentice at Great Ormond Street Hospital, has appreciated the abundance of support she’s received throughout her apprenticeship — from her line manager and employer, learning providers, and the community and networks she has built with other apprentices through AoA.

“What’s really important for me is having a clear career pathway, and knowing what’s next, so that when you complete that apprenticeship, you have an idea of what that leads to; what the next steps are and what could be in the future.”

The Association of Apprentices

Dedicated to supporting both apprentices and employers, AoA connects apprentices to a network of peers, mentors, and social groups, providing career-boosting resources and events. For businesses, AoA offers insights into effective apprenticeship programme implementation and strategies for apprentice retention, ensuring that companies can maximise the benefits of their apprenticeship schemes.

Actionable insights for organisations:

1. Develop comprehensive training programmes: Ensure that apprenticeship schemes are well-structured, combining practical experience with theoretical learning.
2. Implement mentorship opportunities: Pair apprentices with experienced mentors to guide their development and integrate them into the company culture.
3. Outline clear career paths: Provide apprentices with a roadmap of potential career progression within the organisation to motivate and retain talent.
4. Engage with AoA: Utilise the resources and support offered by the Association of Apprentices to enhance apprenticeship programmes and outcomes.

Recognising excellence: The Professional Apprentice Recognition Scheme (PARS)

The Professional Apprentice Recognition Scheme (PARS) is a groundbreaking initiative that offers professional recognition to apprentices across the UK. A collaboration between the Chartered Institution for Further Education and the Association of Apprentices, PARS allows completed apprentices to use post-nominal letters, such as CSA, CAA, or CHA, depending on their qualification level. This formal recognition not only elevates the status of apprenticeships but also acknowledges the dedication and expertise of apprentices, further encouraging loyalty and commitment within the workforce.

By embracing apprenticeships and initiatives like PARS, businesses can build a skilled, loyal, and motivated workforce, ultimately leading to a more robust and cohesive company culture.