Apprentices are employees
When employers hear the word apprentice, it's easy to picture someone spending most of their time learning, but that's only part of the picture.
An apprentice is an employee. They're there to learn, develop and contribute to your organisation at the same time. With the right role, training and support, an apprentice can become a genuinely useful member of your team while building skills that benefit your business for years to come.
Apprenticeships aren't limited to traditional trades. They can work across all sorts of business functions.
Digital
An apprentice could help manage websites, update digital content, support online platforms, analyse data or learn how your organisation uses digital tools. For businesses that need to improve their digital presence, bringing in someone who is comfortable with technology can be a real asset.
Marketing
From social media and content creation to email campaigns, research and events, there are plenty of marketing activities where an apprentice can contribute. They can bring a fresh perspective on how your organisation communicates with younger audiences while developing professional marketing skills.
Finance
Apprentices can support areas such as invoicing, accounts administration, data entry, financial reporting and other day-to-day finance tasks. With the right training and supervision, they can gradually take on more responsibility as their knowledge develops.
Technology
Technology apprentices can contribute to software development, IT support, cybersecurity, data and other technical areas. They may start by supporting experienced colleagues and gradually take ownership of more complex tasks as their skills improve.
Administration
Good administration keeps businesses moving. An apprentice could help with scheduling, document management, data, correspondence, meeting preparation and general office coordination. These might sound like small tasks, but getting them done efficiently can free up experienced employees to focus on higher-value work.
Engineering
Engineering apprenticeships can provide a direct route into highly skilled technical careers. Apprentices can learn from experienced engineers while contributing to projects, developing practical skills and working towards recognised qualifications. It's also an opportunity for businesses to start developing the technical talent they need for the future.
Customer service
An apprentice could support customers by phone, email, online chat or in person. They can develop valuable skills in communication, problem solving and relationship management while helping your team handle day-to-day customer needs.
Don't expect an apprentice to arrive fully formed
An apprentice isn't an experienced employee at a lower cost. They're someone at an earlier stage of their career who is learning while contributing.
That means employers need to provide clear responsibilities, appropriate training, a named person to support them, regular feedback and opportunities to take on more responsibility.
Get that balance right and you're developing someone who can become a valuable part of your organisation.
Think beyond the first year
One of the biggest benefits of an apprenticeship is the opportunity to develop talent around the needs of your own business.
You can teach someone your systems, processes and ways of working while helping them build a recognised qualification and professional career. They gain experience, you develop talent, and your business gets someone who can grow with it.
Sources and review
This guide was last reviewed on and is based on the following official sources. Rules can change, so always check the source for the most current position.
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