by Duncan Newman, Economic Development Officer
Firstly, I would like to begin by thanking everyone who has supported our Apprenticeship Seminars over the past two years. Our aim has always been to provide employers with up to date information on the Apprenticeship Scheme and the levy. We are very appreciative of all the positive comments we have received from delegates and guest speakers and value all of your contributions.
Our most recent seminar was hosted by AIM Altitude on the Aviation Business Park at Bournemouth Airport. Delegates received a warm welcome and first class hospitability from our hosts of the evening which began with a welcome from Colin Thornton, Group Design and Engineering Director at AIM Altitude.
Matthew Butcher, Head of Business and Skills Enterprise at Bournemouth and Poole College, gave a presentation on higher and degree level Apprenticeships and the benefits the training programmes can bring to employers and employees.
Delegates learned more about higher and degree level Apprenticeships in Engineering from Dr Phillip Sewell, Bournemouth University and Matthew White, Bournemouth and Poole College. Rod Davis from Dorset and Somerset Training Network Providers then discussed how the Apprenticeship levy can be used to support the supply chain.
In a final joint presentation Gerry Bishop, Cobham PLC and Anthony Carr, Bournemouth and Poole College, looked at innovative ways of spending the levy. This included an in depth example of the Project Management Apprenticeship.
After the seminar, delegates had the opportunity to network and many took up the invitation from AIM Altitude to tour their premises.
Our thanks to everyone who attended the event and to our hosts, AIM Altitude who have also produced a brilliant video to highlight the benefits of employing apprentices in the workplace.
Whether you are considering the recruitment of one or two apprentices or looking at introducing an Apprenticeship Programme at your business or organisation, please email Rod Davis at DSTPN at r.davis@dstpn.co.uk in the first instance.
For more details on how apprentices can benefit your business please visit https://www.apprenticeships.gov.uk/employer/benefits