Well, that’s it for me, the last working day of the year. And what a year it’s been back in the apprenticeship world. It’s been one full of milestones at Professional Apprenticeships, but also for me personally.

I’ve met so many amazing people this year, if you are taking the time to read this, you are probably one of them. From new employers, and amazing applicants to professional connections, you’ve all supported both me and Professional Apprenticeships more than you could possibly know. A big thank you from me.

It’s also been a year of starts. A boatload of apprentices starting at over 100 employers new and old. We even had a visit from Ofsted in the summer, where they rated us Outstanding in all areas.

But, and it’s a big but. What’s next for apprenticeships? What’s going to happen in 2024?

Here are my predictions for apprenticeships in 2024.

Changes to the apprenticeship minimum wage:

Think I’m pretty safe with this bet seeing as it’s already been announced on the government website…

But I think it’s important to include it here because arguably the biggest change coming in will be the increased apprenticeship minimum wage. From April 1st 2024 the apprenticeship wage will increase from £5.28 to £6.40 an hour, a 21% increase from the previous year.

We’ll still continue to encourage our employers to pay more, in reflection of the national living wage, however, it’s still an important change to note.

As always, after their first year, your apprentice’s wage will need to increase to at least the national minimum wage for their age.

Growth of AI in apprenticeships.

Just the other day I was at an event learning about how AI is already changing how we do business day to day. Funnily enough one of our employers was delivering a talk on AI and their apprentice was also in attendance.

I was surprised when the employer joked during their presentation that their apprentice had become their ‘unofficial’ head of AI. Helping to set up, implement and manage it within the business.

Put simply, AI is coming whether we like it or not. Who’s best to learn these new tools and apply them within our businesses if not an apprentice? These young and sharp minds are already using it day to day, be it through their studies at school, you name an AI tool they’ve likely already played around with it.

So I’m calling it now, you’ll be a lot more unofficial “Heads of AI” popping up in the apprenticeship space!

Quality recruitment will be more important than ever.

A recent study by workspace company Beyond has revealed that 2/5 of employees will be considering a change of career in 2024 (that’s 39%). Employee retention is already a big challenge for employers, but it looks like it’ll only get tougher. Fortunately, apprentices stick around, the government site reports that 91% of apprentices stay with their employees when completing their apprenticeship.

But, it’s still very important that you find the right match. That’s where a robust recruitment service will come in. Making sure that you hire someone aligned with your business and your values so that they will love being a part of your team, will be more important than ever to promote retention.

Company culture will be top of the apprentice wish list.

In recent years, there has been a notable shift in the priorities of young individuals entering the workforce, with company culture emerging as a pivotal factor in their decision-making process for apprenticeships. This trend underscores a deeper understanding among young apprentices that the environment in which they learn and grow professionally is just as significant as the skills they acquire.

Today’s apprentices are seeking workplaces where they feel valued, supported, and aligned with the company’s values and mission. They recognise that a positive company culture not only enhances their daily work experience but also fosters a sense of belonging and purpose, crucial elements for long-term job satisfaction and personal growth.

Hiring an apprentice will be one of the most rewarding things you’ll do!

My final prediction is a little cheesy, but I can guarantee you it’s very likely to come true. If you hire an apprentice I personally guarantee you it’ll be one of the most rewarding things you’ll do.

Seeing someone grow and develop and knowing that you had a helping hand in their reaching their goals, really does give you that festive feeling.

To close I hope that 2023 has treated you well, and whatever you choose to do in 2024, I hope it’s a roaring success.

Written by Ben Cridland
Marketing Manager at Professional Apprenticeships.