New £10m apprenticeship boost for business start-ups

Date: 4th December 2008

Apprenticeships are set to become more commonplace in business start-ups with the announcement of a £10 million government fund.

Launched by the Learning and Skills Council (LCS), the Apprenticeship Expansion Programme will make apprenticeships available to more small firms over the next three years.

Funding from the LSC will cover training, management and all additional pay costs involved in taking on an apprentice.

David Way, a spokesman for the LSC, commented: "Given the current economic slowdown, it is important that companies continue training their staff to maintain productivity and a competitive edge."

He added that employing apprentices is a good way for business start-ups to prepare themselves for the economic upturn, and this new funding could provide invaluable assistance.

In other news, business start-ups have until January 31st to file a self-assessment tax return online with HM Revenue and Customs, which an accountant can give advice on.