How to employ an apprentice or apprentices

[jackjohn112]

I am looking to start a garden maintenance business. I would probably be hiring apprentices to keep costs low. The question I have is would I have to be qualified in this area before I could take on an apprentice? Would hiring someone who is qualified in garden maintenance allow me to take on an apprentice as then the qualified person could teach the apprentice? Thanks

 

[Newchodge]

An apprentice is not a cheap source of labour. The contract between you and the apprentice is a training agreement rather than an employment agreement. You will need to use a training provider unless you can demonstrate that you are capable of providing the training needed.

 

[eldirect]

Wow. Please don't take on an apprentice. They should be given time and effort, not used as cheap labour.

 

[justguy]

Apprentices can be a great asset to a company but do need management, support and a commitment to help them gain the skills they need. I suspect many do use them as cheap labour with no intention of providing a real job or indeed skills.

If you can offer what is needed, good for you - more companies supporting apprectices in a good way are needed.