Easy2Recruit welcomes apprenticeship reforms, urges garages to take action

Highlighting the need for both government action and industry involvement to address skills shortage

Easy2Recruit welcomes apprenticeship reforms, urges garages to take action
Photo: Bigstock

Easy2Recruit welcomes proposed changes to apprenticeships in England announced in the King’s Speech. However, they emphasise the need for garages themselves to be proactive in tackling the skills shortage.

The Skills England Bill aims to improve apprenticeship delivery by creating a new Skills England body, with reforms planned for the Apprenticeship Levy, a tax on large businesses that funds skills training.

“Government action is more than needed on apprenticeships,” said Ambi Singh, “which is one of the main reasons why the sector is facing a recruitment black hole as we approach 2030. Garages must also play their part though.”

Apprenticeship numbers remain low, with a 6% decrease in the first half of the 2023/24 academic year compared to the previous year.

Singh acknowledges garages’ hesitation. Taking on apprentices involves a long-term commitment, including salary costs and training supervision. Additionally, the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) requires technicians with specialised skillsets.

Easy2Recruit emphasises that apprenticeships can address this need. Young people learn on the job, allowing garages to develop future technicians who align with their specific needs. However, it takes time to train new staff.

To address the immediate skills gap, Easy2Recruit offers recruitment services to bring skilled workers from countries like the UAE and India. They handle the relocation process, visas, and support for overseas workers, ensuring garages have the staff they need in the short term.

While government reforms are positive, a sustainable solution requires both government action and a more proactive approach from garages in utilising apprenticeships to develop a skilled future workforce.

For more information on Easy2Recruit’s staffing solutions, garages can visit their website by clicking here.

Have your say!

0 0

Lost Password

Please enter your username or email address. You will receive a link to create a new password via email.