The Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) has launched its definitive guide to hiring an apprentice to coincide with National Apprenticeship Week (9 - 13 March).
The ‘CII's Guide to Getting Started', is a step-by-step manual to walk employers in the insurance sector through the process of initiating an apprenticeship programme, getting government funding and how to get the most out of apprentices.
It provides a clear overview of the changing landscape of apprenticeships and explains how the existing ‘frameworks' are to be replaced by new employer driven standards that recognise the needs of employers.
Daniel Pedley, public affairs manager at the CII said: "One of the biggest challenges facing the insurance sector is a talent shortfall. Apprenticeships are a key component of the insurance profession's drive to attract new talent, in particular those who previously might not have considered insurance as a career.
"However, far too often employers worry that apprenticeships are too complicated. This guide dispels the myth that implementing an apprenticeship programme is complex and overly bureaucratic."
The CII's 2014 Skills Survey showed over three quarters of employers are aware of insurance apprenticeships - its highest ever level - up from 46% in 2009.
However, there had been a rise in those employers who say they would be willing to take on an apprentice - up from 41% in 2011 to 51% in 2014.
Pedley added: "The industry needs to ensure we have a strong and diverse flow of talent that will safeguard the UK's position as a global insurance leader. The best way to secure our rich heritage and foster the innovation necessitated by the fast paced world we operate in, is to draw from the widest and most diverse talent pool. Apprenticeships play a key role in achieving this aim. "
