Pay for half an Essex apprentice – and get the other half free! [21/07/2010] Essex County Council (ECC) has pledged to create more than 1000 apprenticeships over the next two years - of which 60 will be within engineering and manufacturing. And the best part for potential employers is that ECC will be paying half of the new apprentices' wages. The project, partially funded by the European Social Fund, will help Essex businesses by providing a 50% wage subsidy to employers who take on an apprentice. This subsidy, based on the £95 minimum weekly wage for an apprentice, and unique to engineering and manufacturing companies, equates to £47.50 per week for the duration of the programme. Engineering and manufacturing has been chosen as an area of special focus within the Essex Apprenticeship programme, which also includes apprenticeships in heating, refrigeration and ventilation, construction, IT, aviation, the marine sector, ports and logistics. Apprentices bring many benefits to businesses: • Apprentices help businesses harness new talent to ensure it has the necessary skills for future growth • Research shows that when qualified, apprentices are more likely to stay with their employer, have more drive and commitment, and often motivate their colleagues • Apprenticeships help to keep key specialist skills that are essential for the future of the industry alive and often bring new ideas and innovation to businesses County Councillor Kevin Bentley said: "The effects of the recession are still being keenly felt by companies operating in certain sectors and businesses are struggling to balance the needs of day-to-day demands and investment in the future. By offering apprenticeship places we are not only providing opportunities for young people and businesses throughout the county, but we are placing Essex on a path to a prosperous future." Businesses looking for apprentices, and those looking for an apprenticeship, can contact ECC on 01245 438815 or on apprenticeships@essex.gov.uk Related Websites: www.essex.gov.uk/essexapprentice