Norwich firm expands apprenticeship training

Norwich employment agency Stafforce has announced plans to extend the reach of its apprenticeship training agency (ATA) across Norfolk, aiming for 100 new placements with small and medium sized firms this year.

The move follows a trial last year and the firm intends to raise awareness in all sectors that an active apprenticeship scheme is an effective way of developing talent pools and investing in people who will grow business.

It will then work with employers to identify and recruit the right individuals and managing training, development, payroll and other HR functions for them throughout.

Stafforce, based at Surrey Street, Norwich, claims that this is a major benefit to firms as they will be able to appoint apprentices who have been pre-vetted for their suitability, while the process gives them far more flexibility and support than if they were to recruit directly.

Apprentice Academy head, Jacqueline Lovewell, said: 'Employers can gain all the competitive advantage to be had when embracing apprenticeships, while minimising their risk. Apprentices are a very potent means to cultivate the talent of the future, lift a company's skill base and create a committed, able, highly competitive workforce.'

'At the same time employment levels, local economies and personal outcomes are all boosted, as young people earn while they learn real life skills and gain relevant, industry-recognised qualifications.'

The ATA's recruitment and management service is delivered both onsite and in classroom sessions with training providers, who are selected by the host companies from a choice of the best on the market.

Stafforce's drive is timed for the run-up to National Apprenticeship Week in March.

Jacqueline Lovewell added: 'Norfolk SMEs are not taking advantage of the opportunities that apprenticeships offer, but we can be the helping hand for those who want to inject new talent into their business by sharing the responsibility.