ATT welcomes new incentives for hiring apprentices

9 July, 2020

The Association of Taxation Technicians (ATT) welcomes the Chancellor’s announcement yesterday (8 July) of further support for employers who take on apprentices.

In the Chancellor’s Plan for Jobs, employers in England will receive a payment of £2,000 for each new apprentice under the age of 25 that they take on between 1 August 2020 and 31 January 2021 - and £1,500 for any apprentice over the age of 25 hired in the same period.

Jeremy Coker, President of the ATT, said:

“As a provider of apprenticeships in taxation, we welcome the additional funding and support available to employers that take on apprentices and would encourage employers to consider using the apprenticeship route for new recruits.

“The ATT launched its Trailblazer Level 4 Professional Tax Technician Apprenticeship in 2017 and it provides a great route into a challenging and enjoyable profession.

“Tax is a varied and interesting career – no two days are ever the same.

“By qualifying on the job, tax apprentices can earn money while they learn and achieve a professional qualification at the same time as developing the knowledge, skills and behaviours to get them started in their career.” 

To complete their apprenticeship, apprentices must complete the ATT’s professional exams. After completing a period of practical experience, they must also evidence their professional competence by completing a special assessment designed to simulate a real-life tax situation.

By taking on an employee through the apprenticeship route, employers can access funding of up to £8,000 towards the study costs for qualifying apprentices.

Since the ATT Trailblazer apprenticeship scheme was launched nearly 500 students have taken this route in to taxation.