Introducing The BPIF Training Employer’s Guide

Apprenticeships are a valuable way to build a skilled and motivated workforce while providing individuals with the opportunity to gain qualifications and practical experience. Whether you’re looking to bring in new talent or develop existing staff, apprenticeships can help future-proof your business.

This guide is designed to help employers understand how apprenticeships work, the benefits they offer, and how to access available funding and incentives. We cover everything from apprenticeship levels and costs to the time commitment involved, ensuring you have the information you need to make informed decisions.

At BPIF Training, we specialise in delivering high-quality apprenticeships tailored to the printing, packaging, and graphic communications industries. As the UK’s largest provider of print apprenticeships, we are committed to supporting businesses every step of the way, from recruitment to completion.

We hope this guide helps you navigate the apprenticeship process with confidence. If you have any questions, our team is here to help.

 

What Does the Employer’s Guide Include?

The Employer’s Guide is packed with resources and ideas to understand, therefore celebrate apprenticeships and everything they can offer a company.

Understanding Apprenticeships >Download Here<
Apprenticeships are widely recognised, yet many people assume they are primarily for young individuals entering the workforce. However, apprenticeships are available to individuals of all ages and career stages, making them a valuable opportunity for both new hires and experienced professionals. Beyond providing entry-level training, apprenticeships play a crucial role in up-skilling employees, retaining talent, strengthening teams, and addressing skills gaps within an organisation. In this section, you’ll learn about:

• • What an Apprenticeship is
  • The different levels available, from Level 2 – 7
  • Why use BPIF Training as a provider, as well as our Vision, Values and Mission.
  • Types of funding and support available
  • Time commitments and financial incentives.

 

Ongoing Support and Assessment / Managing Apprentice Performance >Download Here<
Once an apprenticeship has been chosen, comprehensive support is available to ensure a successful journey. BPIF Training provides dedicated guidance to help apprentices progress effectively. We collaborate closely with both employers and apprentices to monitor progress, facilitate development, and strategically plan for the final assessment. In this section, you’ll learn about:

• Ongoing support available
• Off-the-job training
• Progress reviews
• Managing Apprentice Performance with check in and one-to-one meetings
• Formal reviews
• Preparation for the End-point Assessment (EPA)

 

Onboarding Your Apprentice >Download Here<
A well-structured onboarding process is key to ensuring your apprentice settles into their new role and starts on the right foot. Providing the right support from day one will help them integrate into your team and ensure they understand their responsibilities and training plan. In this section, you’ll learn about:

• What to cover when onboarding a new apprentice
• Creating a training plan
• Ongoing support such as progress reviews and feedback

 

Mental Health >Download Here<
Supporting apprentices’ mental health is a key part of ensuring their well-being and success. Apprentices may face unique challenges, such as adapting to a new work environment or balancing learning with practical tasks, which can impact their mental health. As a manager, fostering a supportive, open environment can make a meaningful difference. In this section, you’ll learn about:

• Identifying mental health needs such as withdrawal, productivity, absenteeism.
• Creating a supportive environment
• Providing mental health resources
• Supporting apprentices through challenges
• Training and resources for managers

 

Maximising the Benefits >Download Here<
An apprenticeship is an investment not only in the apprentice’s growth but in the long-term success of your business. By planning for their future and providing opportunities for ongoing development, you can retain skilled talent and ensure your workforce remains strong. In this section, you’ll learn about:

• Retaining talent by offering clear career paths, providing mentorship and recognising achievements.
• Continuous professional development (CPD), including higher-level apprenticeships, specialised training and learning programmes.
• Progression pathways

 

Identifying Business Needs >Download Here<
Recruiting an apprentice is a chance to address skills shortages, improve your workforce, and plan for the future. Understanding where your business needs support will help you make better decisions when choosing an apprenticeship programme.

• Identifying business needs
• Skills gaps and workforce development
• Matching apprenticeships to roles
• Succession planning
• Recruitment process
• Creating job description and guidance on JD
• Tips for success
• Promoting a apprenticeship vacancy, reviewing and shortlisting applications
• Offering the role and managing expectations
• Apprenticeships agreement and commitment statements

 

Also included in the Employer’s Guide:

• Interview Questions – Example questions to use when interviewing a potential apprentice. Useful tips to revealing their motivation and potential. >Download Here<
• FAQ’s – Covering everything from how Off-The-Job Training works to advertising.  >Download Here<