Uptake for apprenticeships in Norfolk higher than pre-pandemic levels

There has been a huge surge in people signing up for apprenticeships in Norfolk. Since August 2021, the uptake of apprenticeships across the county has increased by 53%, 10% above the national figure*.

Apprenticeships are a Government-funded scheme, which enable businesses to improve their productivity and sustainability, and give individuals the opportunity to build their future by earning and learning.

This significant rise in interest reflects the combined impact of the commitment of employers across Norfolk, recent Government incentives and Norfolk County Council's dedicated team of experts at Apprenticeships Norfolk. Last summer's #MadeInNorfolk advertising campaign and the additional grants, incentives and support offered by Apprenticeships Norfolk have proved that partnership working achieves effective results.

Cllr Graham Plant, Norfolk County Council's Cabinet Member for Growing the Economy, said: "Apprenticeship schemes are so important for the local economy. Not only have they been able to support struggling businesses through this challenging time, but they have the ability to facilitate change for the long-term.

"Apprenticeships can break down barriers for people to enter many different career paths, whatever age you are, to engage in meaningful work. They are also an effective way of spreading opportunities and broadening horizons in forgotten and hard to reach communities, which chimes completely with our levelling up agenda."

"The recent take-up has been really encouraging and I would urge other businesses to consider this excellent way of nurturing new talent. And please remember, it's an all age offer and a year-round offer, so do look at our website for more information."

Visit the Apprenticeships Norfolk website (opens new window)

Latest figures from Government show that in the first three months of the 2021/22 academic year, almost 2000 young people in Norfolk between the ages of 16 and 19 chose an apprenticeship, an increase in 83% from the same period in the previous year (2020/21).

Although Government incentives have currently drawn to a close, Apprenticeships Norfolk has made a commitment to continue their Recruit, Retain, Reward (RRR) financial incentive scheme for Norfolk businesses, taking on new and/or redundant young apprentices, aged 16-24.

The Access to Apprenticeships bursary grant is also available to help support apprentices with travel, equipment for their job and digital equipment and connectivity, to make apprenticeships accessible to all.

Employers who have benefitted from grants and support say:

"The entire team at Apprenticeships Norfolk has been fantastic. Their hard work and support has enabled us to transition two young people from a temporary Kickstart scheme to permanent employment and apprenticeships. This has not only been a boost to our business, but also enabled us to retain two talented young people with bright futures ahead of them."
Christopher Lewer - Clarity Digital

"Very straightforward process in recruiting the apprentice. The Recruit, Retain, Reward process was very clear, and communication from the team was first class throughout."
Sexty & Co. Accountants

"Knowing the RRR Grant was also available aided our decision to take on an apprentice during the pandemic. The RRR Grant has most definitely been easy to navigate with regular reminders to ensure the funding comes through, thank you...."
Aspire Hair, Sprowston

*This release provides provisional in-year apprenticeship figures in the first quarter of the 2021/22 academic year (August to October 2021) (opens new window).