Employing an apprentice can be as daunting for the employer as it can for the employee.
We spoke to Helene Merrit from Just Paws Dog Day Care, about her experience of employing an apprentice.
This is the first time I have had an apprentice. I work from my home and this is my first full time employee. It was a great easy way in for me – I have known Caitlin since she was 8 years old, so already knew she would be a great addition to my business.
How do you find working with Haddon Training?
I’ve find working with Haddon really easy, I don’t get too involved with the sessions with Caitlin, but she is happy with how they work.
What are the benefits to employing an apprentice?
A big benefit of employing an apprentice for me has been being able to have a full time member of staff on a lower wage. It’s my first ever full time employee and I wasn’t sure I would have enough work for the hours, but we actually easily fill our days and Caitlin has enough time to do her written work too.
Are there any negatives?
I haven’t found any negatives to having an apprentice; I enjoy teaching Caitlin new skills and it’s great to have someone who is genuinely interested in learning. I feel that I’m very lucky to have employed someone I know, who has the drive and passion to learn and get the job done.
I previously trained as an apprentice in Vet nursing, and feel I learnt a lot more with practical on the job training than I would have done completing a college course.
What advice do you have for anyone else looking to employ an apprentice?
My advice to anyone looking to employ an apprentice would be to get a book keeper to make sure you do all of your paperwork properly (especially if you are new to having employees). A trial period would be a good idea to make sure that your person is the right fit for you.
You will be working closely with them so you need to make sure you are compatible especially if you are a small business.
Make the job appealing and provide a proper learning experience then the person will want to do the job properly.
If you’d like to find out more about becoming a Haddon Training Employer then please give us a call on 01672 519977 or send us an email to enquiries@haddontraining.co.uk.