Scot Gov is making it hard for firms to take on apprentices

Apprenticeships in Ayrshire, (and indeed the rest of the UK), are essential for bridging the gap between education and employment.

- LILLIAN JONES

They provide young people with hands-on experience, practical skills, and industry knowledge that employers value. In a region with diverse industries like engineering, healthcare, and hospitality, apprenticeships help meet local workforce demands while reducing youth unemployment. Overall, they empower individuals, strengthen communities, and ensure Ayrshire remains competitive in a changing job market.

The Apprenticeship Levy, introduced by the UK Government in April 2017, applies to all UK employers with an annual pay bill over £3 million.

It is set at 0.5 per cent of the total pay bill, with a £15,000 annual allowance. While the levy is collected on a UK-wide basis, how the funds are used differs significantly between England and Scotland.