Our scheme makes it easy for employers to take on apprentices
From plumbers to IT specialists - we’re giving young people the support they need to launch their careers through apprenticeships.
Our ‘Get East Hants Working’ apprenticeship scheme provides funding for wages, travel and training to make it easier than ever for local businesses to take on apprentices.
Since the scheme launched in 2013 the council has supported more than 75 young people, giving them the chance to learn on the job, get experience of the workplace and study for valuable qualifications.
Nik (20) is an apprentice at Smallworld IT, in Whitehill & Bordon, who has been supported by our scheme.
He said: “I did not have any previous experience of employment and this made it very difficult to get accepted for any more ambitious job roles.
“The primary reason behind me taking an apprenticeship position was the fact that I saw it as an opportunity to get a position that offered the space for growth, and that I was more likely to be accepted for. Currently, I am finding the role to be surpassing those expectations, as it allows not only for growth, both as a person and as an employee, but also allows me to experience employment with a level of responsibility and opportunity that would usually take years to accumulate.”
Julian Small, of Smallworld IT, said: “In his role as Apprentice IT Support Technician, Nik continues to develop his skills and provides great value to Smallworld IT.
"One of the great benefits of the apprenticeship is that Nik gets paid to learn on the job. Each day Nik gets to work on some amazing things with the team, including Cyber Security, Microsoft 365 Business products and assisting our customers with their IT support requests.
"Since 2015 Smallworld has employed apprentices under the scheme. Apprentices have always been a valuable part of our professional services team and have gone on to achieve great things within the company. I wouldn’t have any hesitation in employing more apprentices if I could.”
Find out more about our apprenticeship scheme
Our apprenticeship scheme supports all sectors of industry. Currently, another apprentice, Harry, is learning his trade with Southern Plumbing and Heating which has used the scheme to successfully bring through young people in the past.
Cllr Robert Mocatta, EHDC’s Portfolio Holder for Regeneration and Prosperity, said: “This week is Apprenticeship Week, so it is a great time to remember the fantastic opportunities apprenticeships offer people in a wide variety of industries across East Hampshire.
“Whether it’s getting young people on the first step of the ladder or helping older people start a new career, an apprenticeship is an excellent way to give people the chance to learn their trade.
“By giving real life workplace experience alongside any necessary qualifications it combines the best of both worlds, and I am proud we have been able to help so many people through this brilliant scheme.”
How does the scheme work?
Funding is available from East Hampshire District Council, to subsidise wages and contribute towards transport and training for apprentices joining businesses in East Hampshire District.
Businesses of all sizes are eligible for the scheme. In particular, we encourage applications from small and medium sized businesses. Priority will be given to new applications.
To be eligible for the scheme businesses must:
- have a physical address in East Hampshire
- pay business rates to East Hampshire district council
- offer a minimum of 30 hours per week
- contribute towards the wages
- employ apprentices who live within East Hampshire District area.
What is available?
One year's funding per new apprenticeship post
Up to £400 towards travel
Up to £1,000 towards training (for over 25s only)
For more information about the scheme please contact Sarah Flamson by email: sarah.flamson@easthants.gov.uk.