Podcast 215: Are apprenticeships the forgotten key to building talent pipelines?

If employers were offered a way to meet their skills and workforce needs while also addressing long-term engagement and retention challenges, wouldn’t most, if not all, jump at the chance? Statistically, apprenticeships offer exactly that. Yet only 6% of young people are undertaking an apprenticeship. So, is it time for employers to reacquaint themselves with the benefits apprenticeship routes can bring to their business? Join Nigel Cassidy and this month’s guests: Karen Handley, Virgin Media O2 Head of Future Careers; Sinead Trudgill, Director of Learning and Organisation Development at Network Rail; and Andrea Gordon, HR Consultant, as we explore whether apprenticeships are the key to tackling some of your organisation’s primary workforce challenges. --- A reminder if you're a Student member, bookings are now open for the CIPD Student Conference 2025 taking place on 8 March. This virtual half-day event is included as part of your membership and is a great opportunity to explore future-focused HR topics, gain career insights, and connect with people professionals and your peers. Don't miss out, claim your free ticket at cipd.org/studentconf2025