Why OSG invests in apprenticeships
Taking on apprentices has been a very positive experience for us as an employer. It's a fantastic way to give young people a meaningful start to their careers. We all remember how daunting it can be to step into the professional world with little or no experience. By offering apprenticeships, we’re able to bridge that gap, nurturing the next generation of skilled professionals while benefiting our business.
Why apprenticeships work for employers
One of the key advantages of apprenticeships is the balance between practical and academic learning. Our apprentices spend four days a week learning on the job with us and one day in the classroom, where they bolster their skill sets. This combination allows them to come away with a recognised further education qualification and a solid foundation to build a successful career.
From our perspective, this model also means that apprentices become valuable contributors to the company early on. Their fresh perspectives and growing skills help us remain dynamic and forward-thinking.
Benefits for the team
The benefits extend beyond just the apprentices themselves. Our existing team members develop leadership, mentoring, and training skills by working with apprentices. This encourages a collaborative and supportive culture, strengthening our practice.
As a practice, we favour recruiting less experienced individuals and training them up in-house, over hiring those with extensive qualifications. We find this approach promotes employee engagement and buy-in, as many of our team members have progressed through similar pathways.
Our tips for employers considering apprenticeships
Invest early for long-term gains: Training apprentices requires time and resources upfront. However, this investment pays dividends as they grow into capable, engaged members of the team.
Be selective with Degree Apprenticeships: We’ve found Level 6 degree apprenticeships in architecture more challenging. Apprentices have historically had to travel to London, which can lead to a disconnect from their full-time peers. Additionally, the workload is demanding and requires a passionate, dedicated individual to see it through.
Start small: We recommend employing young people full-time for six months to a year before enrolling them in a degree apprenticeship. This gives them time to understand the work and decide if it’s the right path for them.
Support technical pathways: Apprenticeships work particularly well for technical roles and for those who are highly dedicated, degree apprenticeships can offer an excellent pathway to earning a qualification while gaining practical experience.
Apprenticeships are a powerful way to cultivate talent, build a strong team, and give young people a positive start in their careers. While there are challenges, particularly in the early stages, we are firm believers that the long-term benefits make it a worthwhile endeavour.
If you’re motivated by giving a young person a good start in their early career and are prepared to invest your time in their development, taking on an apprentice is a great opportunity to invest in both your company’s future and the next generation of professionals.