TRUDY MORRIS: Apprenticeships are an investment in the future of far north
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Trudy Morris, chief executive of Caithness Chamber of Commerce, urges firms to breathe new life into their business in Scottish Apprenticeship Week
Even in the snow-blanketed north Highlands, spring is in the air. A time of rebirth, renewal, and hope – even in the most turbulent of times, the sight of the first snowdrops along the roadsides and pathways can’t fail to bring a sense of optimism.
Amidst the challenges and burdens of the current business environment, it can be difficult to embrace the lightness that spring promises. But my own spirits are continually revived in the work which the chamber supports through Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) North Highlands and our partners, supporting and inspiring young people on their first steps into the world of work.
With Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2023 in full swing and “Caithness Jobs and how to get them” jobs fair on the horizon this weekend, it is fantastic to see local employers committed to employment and training opportunities for young people here in Caithness and north Sutherland.
The diverse range of opportunities available locally reflects the varied employment landscape of the region, which is set to further broaden as we adapt to an ever-changing and rapidly evolving future. Ensuring businesses and organisations are equipped with the skills to meet these needs is a challenge faced by all and we must work together to nurture our homegrown talent.
Apprentices can breathe new life into businesses, unlocking the potential to attract talented and motivated young workers, enhancing company reputation, and allowing employers to future-proof their business by developing skilled workforces from the roots up.
Employer research carried out by Skills Development Scotland found that 83 per cent of businesses taking on apprentices had improved the company’s productivity, while 79 per cent reported better staff morale. But supporting an apprenticeship isn’t just a sound business decision, it represents a sustained investment in the future of the north Highlands, our collective future, and the resilience of our economy and communities.
By allowing individuals to advance their employment, earning, and educational prospects, whilst living within their local area, apprenticeship opportunities can help to establish a more inclusive workforce and fairer economy. But these opportunities are not exclusive to large companies – employers of all sizes can support young people with training and apprenticeship opportunities.
We are blessed locally to have some fantastic businesses and organisations going above and beyond to support initiatives that invest in the growth and development of our future workforce.
I appreciate that for many businesses, employing an apprentice can be cost-prohibitive and some may feel overwhelmed by how to start, but Caithness Chamber of Commerce can offer support, guidance, and advice throughout the process.
Signposting businesses to opportunities for funding support and training costs is just one of the ways we can help. The Caithness Business Fund offers grants of up to £5000 to help businesses in the region that are looking to employ an apprentice.
Since 2013 the fund has supported 10 apprentice opportunities across a variety of sectors including farming, hospitality, renewables, trades and business administration. That’s great news for both north Highland businesses and communities at a time where shrinking and ageing populations are a threat.
If an apprenticeship isn’t on the cards, employers interested in supporting young people with employability skills can engage directly with DYW North Highlands. From jobs fairs to mock interviews, work experience, and more there are plenty of opportunities to get involved.
As we celebrate Scottish Apprenticeship Week for another year, I look forward to seeing our own local apprentices flourish and thrive, each one helping to shape the future of our north Highland region.
