Chef Raymond Blanc with his apprentice Amber Fall

Apprentices can work for you

We want to grow the number of companies that employ apprentices and believe it’s time for businesses to see apprenticeships in a new light - there's much more to them than blue overalls.

The Mayor has committed to increase the number of apprentices in London to 250,000 by 2016. He believes that the city is full of talented young people who can help boost our economy. London is the fastest growing region for apprentices and has over the last two years seen 88,630 new apprenticeship starts - an increase of 132%.

Whatever the culture of your company, an apprentice can make a positive difference, bringing fresh thinking and creativity to the table that will increase productivity and help inspire your existing workforce.

If you need immediate advice, please call the National Apprenticeship Service on 08000 150 600.

Hear how apprenticeships have helped other London businesses.

The Mayor of London Boris Johnson has joined forces with London business leaders, including two-star Michelin chef Raymond Blanc, to urge London's industries to take on more apprentices.

Apprentices can...

Add to your bottom line:

• 74% of apprentices add value within their first few weeks.
• 76% of those who employ apprentices agree they make their workplace more productive.
• 81% of customers would prefer to use a company that employs apprentices.

Build your future workforce:

• 83% of employers who employ apprentices rely on the programme for the skilled workers they need now and in the future. Apprenticeships can help develop the specialist knowledge required to keep pace with the latest technology and working practices in your sector.
• 92% of employers who employ apprentices believe they lead to a more motivated and satisfied workforce.
• 56% of business managers say that a high proportion of their apprentices go on to management positions within the company.

Help support your learning and development needs:

• The government is committing a significant contribution to the training costs for Higher Apprentices. The National Apprenticeship Service (NAS) is a free resource that can offer step-by-step guidance tailored to your business.
• In many cases NAS will fund up to 100% of the training costs and you could be entitled to a grant of £1,500.