- February 9, 2024
- Category: News
Westcotts announce participation in South West Apprenticeship Ambassadors Network (SWAAN)
In celebration of National Apprenticeship Week (5th – 11th February 2024), Westcotts is proud to announce we are now an Employer Ambassador with the South West Apprenticeship Ambassadors Network (SWAAN). As an employer with apprentices in our 16 offices across Devon and Somerset, we’re proud to be a part of SWAAN, championing apprentices throughout the South West region.
SWAAN are one of nine regional networks funded by the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA). It’s their goal to promote and encourage more apprenticeships within the region by helping both apprentices and employers facilitate the process. They also count on partners and communities to help promote the benefits of this educational route.
In 2023, we were recognised as one of the Department of Education’s Top 50 SME Apprenticeship Employers. This title recognises businesses for their commitment to creating apprenticeships, the diversity of apprentices and the number of apprentices successfully achieving their qualifications. Now, as one of 115 Employer Ambassadors with SWAAN, we can continue to deliver a strong commitment to our apprentices and to apprenticeships as a whole.
Membership guarantees support for businesses, but it also means that apprentices will have access to a support group, further training and can be nominated for awards.
Westcotts offer apprenticeships across levels three, four and, seven and our accountancy qualifications include the Accounting Technicians (AAT), the Institute of Chartered Accountants England and Wales (ICAEW) and the Association of Certified Chartered Accountants (ACCA).
Currently, we have 18 people training on the Association of Taxation Technicians (ATT) scheme, six on the Associate Chartered Accountant (ACA) scheme and 11 on the ACCA scheme. Our apprentices can study all manner of finance-related courses including bookkeeping, audits, and tax.
Head of HR, Simon Irvin, said: “We were proud to be recognised as one of the Top 50 Apprenticeship Employers last year and now we get to continue that great work of championing apprenticeships as an Employer Ambassador with SWAAN.”
“Looking ahead to 2024 and beyond, Westcotts will continue to promote and provide a range of apprenticeships, helping apprentices to grow into their role and develop skills for life whether they stay with us or start a new chapter elsewhere.”