Apprenticeships case study - Resource Productions

Why did you choose to employ apprentices?

We wanted to bring in someone straight from school, influence their learning and ensure they were trained on the job for new roles that were evolving as our company grows.

How has your apprenticeship programme benefited your business?

Our apprenticeship programme has helped us have a younger input and view on our activities. It’s also brought a different dynamic and livelier culture to our office. We believe employing apprentices is a sustainable way of growing the company and workforce. It’s also helped us in terms of retaining staff and increasing profitability.

Who are your apprentices?

Amanda Dorsett is 20 and is on her second apprenticeship within the company. Having completed Level 3 Creative and Digital Media, she’s currently halfway through Level 4 in Marketing and Communications. As project coordinator, she’s the backbone of the organisation.

When she started, she knew she had an interest in Digital Media. Over the last two years, she’s developed specialist skills in digital communication and design. She now designs and produces all our publicity and promotional materials, manages our databases and newsletters and oversees our online presence including web, Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.

Declan Grant is also 20 and is on his first Level 3 Community Arts apprenticeship with us. He’s a practical hands-on people person with the ability to enthuse our clients and customers about every aspect of our business. He has excellent local knowledge and acts as a positive role model and advocate of the work we do – out and about in the wider community.

How does hiring apprentices compare with other routes?

We’ve also have been involved in graduate schemes,but have chosen to focus our efforts on apprenticeships because there is a central consistent model through the National Apprenticeship Service which we can tap into, alongside the support of our training provider. All recruitment costs, assessments and promotion is handled by others, which is great for small businesses with limited budgets.

Would you recommend apprentices to other business?

Of course! Our turnover has doubled in parallel with taking on our first apprentice.

What advice would you give employers considering hiring apprentices?

Investigate all the qualification frameworks and pick one that’s right for your company activities or an area of growth you’re exploring. Treat the apprentice EXACTLY as you do all other staff members.