The Institute of Telecommunications Professionals (ITP) is urging all large telecoms employers to access apprenticeship levy funding, as recent research from the Department for Education reveals an estimated 11,000 large companies are still not using the Government's new online service.
From April 2017, all companies with a wage bill of over £3m are required to pay an apprenticeship levy at a rate of 0.5%. The new online service allows them to access the funding available for apprenticeships.
"If your business is one of the 11,000 who has not yet signed up to an account, but is required to pay the levy, then it makes sense to start employing apprentices straight away," stated Crissi Williams, CEO of the ITP.
"Traditionally, many larger organisations were put off apprenticeships because they wanted to hire graduates. With many new apprenticeship standards available, it is now possible to hire graduates who want to undertake an apprenticeship following their studies.
"We would urge any businesses paying the levy to look into an apprenticeship scheme. They are a great way to grow fresh talent within your organisation."
The ITP runs a telecoms apprenticeship scheme, which first launched in 2013 and has since created 75 roles across the industry. It recruits, trains and mentors apprentices on behalf of partner organisations.