Finding and retaining apprentices is one of the biggest challenges facing UK trades businesses today. James from RSP Decorations joined the Trade Legends Podcast to share his honest experience as a mentor and employer, currently on his third apprentice and still navigating the hurdles at every step.

The Growing Struggle to Find Apprentices

Securing a suitable apprentice placement is harder than ever. Qualified candidates are increasingly scarce as skills shortages affect trades businesses nationwide. Individual motivation alone cannot fill the gap — the problem runs much deeper across the entire construction sector.

The True Cost of Taking On an Apprentice

Despite funding assistance through programmes like CITB, the real costs of properly training an apprentice far exceed any reimbursements received. Time spent instructing reduces productivity. Basic wages still need paying. And when a trainee drops out halfway through their programme, the investment is simply lost — leaving employers out of pocket and back to square one.

College Disruptions Adding to Employer Frustration

James highlights a frustration shared by many trade employers — college disruptions repeatedly delay apprenticeship completions. While colleges bear responsibility for curriculum interruptions, it is employers who absorb the financial consequences. With rising minimum wages adding further pressure, retaining apprentices beyond their original terms becomes financially unsustainable for smaller businesses.

Economic Pressures Making Things Worse

Recessions threaten the availability of apprenticeships just when they are needed most. During harder economic times, employers feel the pinch and reduce intake — despite skills shortages becoming even more acute. It is a damaging cycle that undermines the very system designed to bring new talent into the trades.

Why Apprenticeships Still Matter

Despite the very real challenges, James is clear — perseverance pays off for both employers and apprentices alike. Experienced tradespeople are retiring faster than replacements can be trained. Young people who commit to the trades today are entering a sector with strong long-term demand and genuinely rewarding career prospects.

Solving the apprenticeship crisis requires collaboration between government, educators and the trades sector. Until then, employers like James continue doing their part — one apprentice at a time. Read more about careers in the trades and browse our full podcast episodes or save on trade essentials with our exclusive discounts.