How digital apprenticeships can future-proof your workforce

The digital skills shortage in the UK is becoming a pressing issue that businesses and workers alike are grappling with. With technology advancing at a rapid pace, employers across all sectors are increasingly looking for employees who can utilise the latest digital tools. However, a significant digital skills gap is widening, and the competition for talent is growing fiercer by the day. 

For businesses struggling with these challenges, have you considered the benefits of using a digital apprenticeship service? Could this be a viable pathway to ensure you have the digital talent in place so you don’t get left behind by the rapid pace of technological advancement? To help you answer these questions, our insightful guide will explore the following areas:

• Why are digital skills so critical? 
• What is a digital apprenticeship?
• What are the benefits of digital apprenticeships for your business?

Why are digital skills so critical? 

Digital skills are no longer just nice-to-haves; they are becoming increasingly vital. From basic computer literacy to advanced expertise in areas like cybersecurity, data science, and digital marketing, these skills empower employees to enhance productivity, innovate, and solve problems. Employees are looking for candidates who can handle technological integration in diverse sectors, from healthcare to finance. Those with advanced digital skills not only stand out but also have a competitive advantage in the job market. 

What digital skills are becoming highly sought after by employers? Here are some examples of the most in-demand skills:

• Cyber security - As cyber threats grow, companies need professionals who can safeguard their data and networks. 
• Data analysis  - The ability to interpret and drive decisions based on data is critical in many industries. 
• Digital marketing - With businesses moving their marketing online, expertise in SEO, content creation, and social media management is in demand.
• Software development - Coding and building digital infrastructure are foundational skills for most tech-driven businesses. 
• Project management - Familiarity with digital tools for project management ensures that tasks are completed on time and within budget.

Current state of digital talent in the UK 

However, despite the importance of digital skills, there’s a growing scarcity of talent. Approximately 76% of UK tech hiring managers have stated that they struggle to fill tech roles, a problem that is echoed in other countries such as France and Italy. Several factors drive this shortage, including the rising demand for specific tech skills like AI and big data and competition for talent from established companies and innovative startups. 

Research reveals that 82% of UK jobs now require digital skills, yet a significant proportion of employees are ill-equipped to meet these demands. By 2025, there are expected to be 3 million tech jobs in the UK, and 60% of employers anticipate their reliance on advanced digital skills will increase over the next five years. 

Many employers are aware of these challenges, yet despite the demands, many employees still lack the necessary skills, and more than half of them report that their employers haven’t provided any training to bridge this gap. 

With all the damning statistics and the challenges that lie ahead for businesses that don’t keep up with the digital revolution, is it time that companies consider how digital apprenticeships could future-proof their business?

What is a digital apprenticeship?

So, what exactly does a digital apprenticeship entail, and why are they so beneficial to businesses?

Digital apprenticeships are structured training programmes to help businesses build a skilled workforce equipped for the future in areas such as software development, coding, data analysis, and IT support. With the increased use of technological tools such as AI, data, cloud computing, and machine learning in the workplace, you need talent in place who can maximise them so you don’t get left behind. 

Therefore, digital apprenticeship services combine on-the-job training with classroom learning, with the curriculum tailored to meet the needs of your business, markets, and industries. Examples of digital apprenticeship programmes include:

• Data technician Level 3
• Data analyst Level 4
• Data support technician level 3
• Software development technician 
• Network engineer level 4
• Software developer level 4
• Information communication level 3 
• IT solutions technician level 3

With digital apprenticeships, businesses can access high-potential and motivated learners equipped with the latest skills in areas such as coding, data management, and network engineering. They are also accessible to a wide range of individuals, including school leavers and older candidates looking to change careers. 

These government-approved digital apprenticeships not only boost your team’s technical expertise but also develop soft skills like communication, problem-solving, and teamwork, helping your employees thrive in today’s digital-driven world. 

The benefits of digital apprenticeships for your business

Digital apprenticeship services offer a practical way to bring in enthusiastic learners while addressing specific digital skills gaps. Here’s a closer look at how these programmes can benefit your organisation. 

Direct access to high-potential talent 

Apprenticeships provide a great opportunity for emerging talent to realise their potential and build valuable skills for the future. With a range of progression paths, they’re perfect for both new hires and existing employees, no matter their experience level. These programmes, therefore, offer businesses an alternative way to grow their talent pipeline alongside traditional recruitment methods by giving them direct access to this high-potential talent, ensuring you can nurture and develop the right individuals to meet your future needs.

Training that fits your business needs 

One of the best things about apprenticeship programmes is that they can be tailored to match your organisation’s goals. For example, Pareto’s apprenticeship service can tailor a course’s curriculum in collaboration with a business to meet their goals, market, and industry, ensuring apprentices develop skills that are directly relevant to their priorities and allow them to make a real impact and drive ROI.

Cost-effective way to build a workforce 

Hiring experienced professionals can be expensive, especially in competitive industries. Apprenticeships offer a cost-effective alternative, combining hands-on experience with government-backed training. Whether you’re hiring a new apprentice or upskilling current employees, this approach allows you to strengthen your team if external hires are proving too costly. 

Furthermore, for businesses with an annual wage bill of £3 million or more, the Apprenticeship Levy provides additional support. As part of the levy, companies contribute 0.5% of their annual wage bill, receiving a £15,000 Levy Allowance in return. The government adds an extra 10% to this amount, which is deposited into a digital account to fund apprenticeship training. 

If your business doesn’t meet the levy threshold or has already used its allocated funds, you can still benefit. Non-levy payers are eligible for at least 95% government funding for apprenticeship programmes, significantly reducing costs and making this option accessible to a wide range of businesses.

You can calculate the available funds for apprentices for your business with our Apprenticeship Levy calculator. 

Addressing specific digital skills gaps 

The fast-changing nature of technology means that many businesses struggle to find employees with the right expertise. Apprenticeships can be designed to fill these gaps. Whether you need people skilled in AI, cloud computing, or IT infrastructure, apprenticeship programmes focus on training candidates in the areas where your organisation needs most support. 

Boosting your reputation as an employer 

Offering apprenticeships is a great way to show that your business is committed to growth and career development. This can make your company more appealing to potential hires and your clients. Highlighting success stories from apprentices on your website or social media can further reinforce your image as a business that values investing in people. 

Promoting diversity and inclusion 

The tech industry faces a significant challenge - it still struggles with diversity. Currently, only 29% of the UK’s tech workforce are women, just 14% of senior roles are held by individuals from ethnic minority backgrounds, and only 9% come from lower socioeconomic groups. 

Apprenticeships open doors for people from a wide range of backgrounds, including those who may not have had access to traditional higher education. By hiring apprentices, businesses can tap into a diverse talent pool and also drive inclusion by supporting career pathways for underrepresented groups. This approach brings fresh perspectives, unique ideas, and a wider range of experiences into your team, enriching workplace culture. 

Inspire a culture of learning 

Apprenticeships drive a culture of continuous learning. Apprenticeships are often highly motivated to grow and develop their skills, which can inspire others in the organisation to do the same. This focus on learning is especially valuable in industries where technology and skill requirements are constantly evolving. 

By using a digital apprenticeship service as part of your hiring strategy, you’re doing more than just tackling immediate talent gaps; you’re laying the foundation for long-term success. Apprenticeships allow you to build a skilled, diverse, and loyal team while controlling costs. They’re a win-win, helping your business grow while opening up opportunities for talent from all backgrounds. So, isn’t it time to future-proof your workforce and diversify your team with apprenticeships?

Digital apprenticeships: The final word

The need for digital skills is no longer optional for your business - it’s essential. Organisations across all industries face mounting pressure to innovate and adapt, yet competition for skilled digital talent has never been more challenging. Digital apprenticeships offer a clear solution, equipping your team with cutting-edge expertise in areas like software development, data analysis, and digital marketing.

By partnering with a digital apprenticeship provider, you’re not just preparing your business for today; you’re ensuring it thrives tomorrow. As the demand for digital talent grows, the question isn’t whether you can afford to invest in apprenticeships; it’s whether you can afford not to. Is your business ready to act now and secure the talent needed to lead in an increasingly digital world? 

Don’t fall behind! We’re ready to develop the talent you need

If you’d like to gain an edge on your competition and learn more about how our digital apprenticeship programmes can benefit your business, book a meeting with one of our dedicated teams. 

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Not quite made your decision? We’re here to help!

We get it! Investing in a digital apprenticeship programme is a big decision, and you want to ensure you have all the information you need. Our expert team are ready to support and talk you through how your business can benefit from one of our apprenticeship programmes. 

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