HELPING businesses reap the rewards of hiring an apprentice is the aim of an event next week supporting our back-to-work campaign.

Basildon’s Eastgate Shopping Centre, South Essex College and the Echo are joining forces to host the event to help local businesses better understand the benefits apprenticeships can offer.

The event is on Tuesday, from 6.30pm until 8pm, in the art gallery in the centre’s Upper Mall, opposite New Look.

The event aims to answer questions employers may have on the work-based training programme, from recruiting apprentices, selecting a training provider and Government funding opportunities that are available.

Employers will also be able to find out whether they are eligible for a grant of up to £1,500 towards an apprentice’s wages.

Business development staff from the college will make a presentation and answer questions. The college’s programme manager, Theresa Thomas, said: “Investing in apprentices can really boost their profits. The college offers more than 40 apprenticeships frameworks in 17 industry areas, so no matter what type of business you work in, there’s likely to be an apprenticeship framework that meets the needs of your organisation.”

There’s no need to book for the event, which includes drinks and a buffet. There will be a networking opportunity from 7pm and visitors will also have the chance to hear from apprentices on how the work-based qualification has benefited them.