How the BMF can help merchants to hire apprentices – Kerry Wilson
The speech is about the importance, opportunities, and challenges of apprenticeships, particularly within the builders’ merchant and KBB (kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom) industries. The speaker passionately highlights how apprenticeships offer diverse pathways for entry-level candidates and experienced professionals to grow, gain qualifications, and develop practical, industry-specific skills.
Key Points:
- Passion for Apprenticeships:
The speaker emphasizes her enthusiasm for apprenticeships and their transformative impact on industries and individuals. - KBB and Builders’ Merchant Integration:
She links apprenticeships in the builders’ merchant sector to KBB, showing their alignment with practical design, sales, and management roles. - Challenging Misconceptions:
She addresses the fear and confusion around managing the apprenticeship levy and other logistical concerns. - Promoting KBB Careers:
Not many in the room would recommend KBB careers to their children, which she finds alarming. She highlights the need to educate teachers, parents, and students about the benefits of apprenticeships. - Flexibility and Growth:
Apprenticeships are not limited to young entrants but also support career changes and upskilling for experienced workers. Programs range from Level 2 to Level 7 (equivalent to a master’s degree). - Practical Experience Over University:
She contrasts the practical, real-world experience of apprenticeships with the theoretical knowledge gained at university, presenting apprenticeships as a more direct and cost-effective pathway into the workforce. - Success Stories and Economic Value:
Apprenticeships allow individuals to earn wages, gain qualifications, and potentially save for major milestones like a house deposit—all while receiving industry-specific training. - Engagement with Schools and Communities:
The speaker discusses initiatives like work experience, CV-writing workshops, and partnerships with schools to inspire young people. - Levy Management and Funding:
She demystifies the funding process, explaining that levy-paying companies can reclaim funds to invest in apprenticeships, while non-levy payers can access co-funded options.
Possible Q&A Answers:
Q: Why are apprenticeships better than university for some roles?
A: Apprenticeships provide real-world experience, direct mentorship from industry experts, and opportunities to earn a salary while learning. They reduce the time and cost of traditional education paths while building essential skills for specific industries.
Q: How do apprenticeships fit into the KBB industry?
A: They provide a structured pathway for roles like kitchen and bathroom designers, showroom managers, and CAD technicians. Apprentices gain practical skills like design, sales, and project management that directly impact their careers.
Q: What is the apprenticeship levy, and how does it benefit companies?
A: The levy is a tax on companies with a wage bill over £3 million. These funds can be used to fund apprenticeship programs, allowing businesses to develop skilled talent and get a return on their investment.
Q: How do apprenticeships help individuals grow beyond entry-level roles?
A: Apprenticeships aren’t just for beginners. They support career changers and existing employees looking to upskill or gain advanced qualifications, like a master’s degree, while continuing to work.
Q: What role does work experience play in promoting apprenticeships?
A: Work experience introduces young people to industries like KBB early, helping them understand career paths and inspiring them to pursue apprenticeships tailored to their interests and skills.
Q: How can businesses better promote apprenticeships?
A: Partnering with schools, offering work placements, and sharing success stories are great ways to raise awareness. Businesses should also use their levy funds effectively and engage with organizations like the Construction Youth Trust to reach wider audiences.
