New Government Apprenticeship Standards require companies with a wage bill of £3 million or more to pay an Apprenticeship Levy to be spent on an apprenticeship training. These changes will allow for the upskill and development of employees through a Trailblazing scheme, allowing current employees to develop both in the workplace and though educational initiatives.

What is a Trailblazer?
A Trailblazer is made up of a group of employers who work together to design new apprenticeship standards for roles and positions within their industry.

Why does our industry need one?
This is a great opportunity for us to introduce an apprenticeship specific to our industry and make us more attractive as employers while bringing greater recognition of the specialisms within our sector. The scope of the Apprenticeship Standard will reflect the diversity of skills required in the Metal Recycling General Operative position in all sizes of businesses within our sector.

How it will benefit us?
We are drafting an Apprenticeship Standard for the Metal Recycling General Operative that will cover yard duties and flexible options, such as weighbridge, which provides a great starting point for most businesses in our industry.

What does this mean for small businesses that do not pay the levy?
If you don’t need to pay the levy you can still benefit from it. Non-levy payers that employ fewer than 50 people will have to contribute 10% with the other 90% coming from Government. Employees of any age can become apprentices and be funded in the same way.

Why should you get involved?
Although we are currently a fair-sized group, we would really benefit from more ideas and input. To ensure that we are getting the apprenticeship right, it would be great to have a few more members involved. You do not have to commit to regular meetings, but just have an interest and feedback your thoughts. Our current group is made up of:

• ELG Haniel

• EMR

• Mellor Metals

• Metal and Waste

• Network 2 Supplies

• Recycled Products

• Recycling Lives

• S Norton

• S Sacker (Claydon) Ltd

• Sims Metal Management

• T.R. Rogers & Sons

• Ward Recycling

What progress have we made so far?
We have a Standard that has been agreed in principle; we are now fine tuning the detail around the main body of the apprenticeship and the options. We have also developed a Communications Plan and are in discussions with an End-Point Assessor.

When will the Standard be available?
The Government Framework within which Apprentice Standards are developed and approved is still evolving but we are well along the process and hope the Standard will be available early next year.

If you are interested in seeing this or being involved, contact communications manager, email Antonia Grey or call 01480 455249 or 07812037613.