New College Swindon Launches Bold New Campaign Encouraging Employers to think differently about Apprenticeships 

New College Swindon has launched a new employer focused campaign designed to challenge outdated perceptions of apprenticeships and spark fresh conversations about workforce development.  

The campaign, titled “Don’t hire an apprentice”, uses bold, thought provoking messaging to highlight the value apprentices bring to modern businesses, particularly those looking to innovate, grow, and future proof their teams.  

The headlines say it all:  

“Don’t hire an apprentice if you prefer things done the old way.”  

“Don’t hire an apprentice if developing talent isn’t your thing.”  

“Don’t hire an apprentice if enthusiasm scares you.”  

Behind the playful tone is a serious message. Apprenticeships remain one of the most effective ways for employers to build talent pipelines, bridge skills gaps, and develop experts who grow with the organisation. With industries evolving rapidly, employers across Swindon and Wiltshire are increasingly seeking motivated, skills-focused individuals who can bring fresh ideas and long-term value to their teams.  

New College Swindon partners with employers of all sizes, from SMEs to large regional organisations, to design apprenticeship programmes that meet real business needs.  

 The College provides:  

• Flexible, industry aligned training  

• Dedicated support for both employers and apprentices, including our designated Careers team  

• A wide range of apprenticeship pathways, from digital and business services to engineering, construction, health.  

• Help navigating funding, levy usage, and recruitment.  

For employers feeling the pressure of recruitment challenges, succession planning, or skills shortages, apprenticeships provide a practical and costeffective solution.  

By flipping the narrative, the campaign encourages businesses to think differently: if you do want innovation, skills development, and motivated new talent, hiring an apprentice could be one of the most impactful decisions you make.  

If your organisation is ready to invest in its future workforce, New College Swindon is ready to support you.  

From April 2026, small and medium-sized businesses (often called SMEs), which are companies that typically have fewer than 250 employees, will no longer have to pay the 5% employer contribution for apprentices who are under the age of 25.  

This means:  

• It will be cheaper for smaller businesses to hire apprentices   

• Employers may be more likely to take on apprentices aged 16 – 25   

• Young people could have more opportunities to enter the workforce through apprenticeships   

Overall, this new policy is designed to encourage small businesses to invest in training and developing young workers by reducing the cost of employing them.  

 Learn more about partnering with us here.

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