£2,500 apprenticeship grants available for employers

Lantra Sector Skills Council is encouraging employers to seize a £2500 funding opportunity to take on a new apprentice, as their skills are celebrated during Apprenticeship Week (1-5 February 2010).In a move to encourage more employers to take on an apprentice, the National Apprenticeship Service is now offering businesses in the environmental and land-based sector a £2500 grant they would be eligible for when they take on a 16 or 17 year old apprentice.Peter Martin, Chief Executive of Lantra commented: "This is a tremendous opportunity for employers considering taking on apprentices. These grants are particularly aimed at small and medium sized businesses, so could be the extra help that is needed. Apprentices can be a great investment for businesses, as on- the-job training can help employers ensure their workforce remains competitive.However it's worth adding that as over 96% of our sector is made up of micro-businesses, it can sometimes be difficult for them to support an apprentice."The grants, available from the National Apprenticeship Service, are for employers who take on an unemployed 16 or 17 year old. They are in addition to the costs of training already covered by the programme, which combines practical and theoretical skills.Many businesses already offer apprentice places and demonstrate increased productivity, improved competitiveness and a more committed and competent work-force. One such employer is Liz Ensor, Head Gardener at the 45-acre Shenley Park Trust She says the benefits of having apprentices should not beunderestimated: "They have enthusiasm and energy which makes such a difference, especially in a small team that can be stretched every day. I would definitely recommend apprenticeships to other employers."Lantra's Peter Martin continued, "Although many businesses are already benefiting from apprenticeships we want more businesses to do so. News of this £2,500 bonus could make all the difference to our businesses. What's more, with only 5,000 grants available until the end of March I would encourage employers in the environmental and land-based sector to take up this offer of funding as soon as possible."For more information about the grant and apprenticeships visit www.lantra.co.uk/Apprenticeship-Week-2010 or call 0845 2707 8007.

"Plus it doesn't matter if we all know plants are better value. I'd make the point of this to the customer but if they want trough grown at the extra cost that's their choice I'd just do it"

"I've done 5ft Thorne troughs. Very easy to plant just got a mini digger dug the trench then drop them in couldn't be easier however £250 per m does seem expensive. "

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