South Devon College nears its apprenticeship target but needs businesses to help with the final push

South Devon College is celebrating the success of its 100 Apprenticeships in 100 Days campaign but says it’s not too late for more employers to sign up. 

With just over four weeks to go until National Apprenticeship Week and the finale of the campaign, local companies have got behind the initiative, with 40 new enrolments, plus 45 apprenticeships in the pipeline, since the start of the campaign. 

To achieve the target of 100 apprentices, the College would love to have at least another 15 businesses pledging to take on an apprentice.   

The campaign will culminate in an event during National Apprenticeship Week, where employers and prospective apprentices will be invited into College to help them progress their journey.

Laurence Frewin, Principal and CEO of South Devon College, said: “We have hundreds of young people who want to start work today and we need more local employers to come forward to offer these young people an apprenticeship. 

“We’ve had a lot of interest in our campaign but it’s not over yet so I urge local employers to contact us to find out more about the benefits of taking on an apprentice.” 

The College says the region is facing a growing disconnect between the number of young people keen to work and the number of employers willing to hire them. It’s believed a combination of economic uncertainty, misinformation and rising business costs is contributing to the issue. 

“We have seen a surge in interest for apprenticeships, with more than 200 applicants but, if employers do not step forward, many of these young people will either leave the area or miss out on vital early career opportunities,” warned Mr Frewin. 

Local companies who are already working with the College say apprentices are a positive asset to their business. 

Mark Rossiter, Managing Director at Yeowards Boatyard, has employed  four apprentices with South Devon College. “The apprenticeship model reinforces the employer’s workforce with relevant skills and knowledge,” he said. 

“Apprentices provide a consistent source of skilled employees that are familiar with our work practices to enter our workforce.  They also bring enthusiasm, new ideas to our working environment and up to date training and skills.” 

Ashley Hone, Director of Operations at Reach Outdoors, is a great advocate for apprenticeships, having employed seven apprentices with the College. “They provide affordable support during quieter periods and allow senior staff to pass on skills and knowledge through on-the-job teaching, which is rewarding for everyone involved,” he said. “The benefits can be significant for both the individual and the business.” 

^{Ashley Hone, Director of Operations at Reach Outdoors}

Gareth Wotton, Head of Business at Ocean BMW in Paignton, also understands what benefits apprentices bring to businesses. “The benefit of ‘growing our own’ talent is so important. Not only do we have the opportunity to work with outstanding young people who are enthusiastic and keen to learn, but we also have the chance to shape them as young adults and provide the experience, skills and knowledge to make them into successful team members for the future.” 

The College is urging any employer considering hiring an apprentice, or unsure about the financial side, to contact its apprenticeship team for clear guidance. 

Employers interested in apprenticeships can contact [email protected] or visit 100 Apprenticeships in 100 Days – South Devon College.