Guidance on apprenticeships for farmers

A new guide has been published for farmers considering taking on apprentices.

The NFU has produced the guide in conjunction with the AgriSkills Forum.

AgriSkills Forum is made up of organisations including the NFU, the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board, Lantra, Sector Skills Council, Landex and the the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs.

The Forum seeks to encourage a sustainable agriculture industry and promote skills within the sector.

The guide “A Guide to Employing an Apprentice Within your Agricultural Business” helps farmers navigate through the process of finding and hiring an apprentice.

Detailed guidance is provided on types of apprentiships, rates of pay, recruitment, designing training programmes, health and safely and employment law.

AgriSkills chair Richard Longthorp said: “This guide helps sign-post employers to relevant information such as how they can become involved in taking on an apprentice, and what support is available.

“The guide also details the support farm businesses can potentially receive from agricultural colleges, as they will often work together when hiring an apprentice.”

The guide marks National Apprenticeship Week currently taking place (6-10 February 2012) and is aimed at encouraging employers and young people to consider apprenticeships.

You can download the guide here