There are almost a quarter of a million Apprenticeship places at present, but the financial services sector has only a tiny percentage of these – only around 750 registrations for Apprenticeships containing a CII unit in 2008. However those containing CII units make up the highest number of insurance and financial services Apprenticeships. We are working hard to promote the benefits that Apprentices bring to a sector which traditionally has not engaged with the concept. Professional bodies are playing a key role in changing attitudes and ensuring that employers understand that the Apprenticeship scheme can be of great help to them and, very importantly given the current economic climate, that there is financial support available.

Sector Apprenticeships have grown quickly over the last year, thanks in part to the work the CII has done to publicise them through the media and networks such as British Insurance Brokers Association, as well as building closer relationships with providers. In 2009, sector Apprenticeship registrations are forecast to surpass 1000 for the first time. Many of the Apprentices within insurance and financial services are not now recruits but current members of staff being upskilled.  

The CII Group and Apprenticeships

The CII has made a commitment to actively support Apprenticeships in the wider financial services sector; we work closely with Apprenticeship providers and employers to bring together supply and demand. Although the CII does not provide Apprenticeships, there are CII units and qualifications which form part of the Apprenticeships described below.

We supply information and guidance to those who want to know more about Apprenticeships and are able to put firms and individuals in contact with providers. We also accredit Apprenticeship providers and there are a number who have gained CII Accredited Provider status, and therefore found it easier to engage with companies. 

For further information contact: Caspar Bartington at Caspar.Bartington@cii.co.uk