Develop Work‑Ready Talent for Business & Professional Roles

Finding the right apprentices for business administration, customer service and finance roles can be challenging. Recruitment takes time, candidates may lack workplace readiness, and skills gaps can impact productivity.

Path 2 Apprenticeships helps bridge that gap by connecting employers with pre‑screened, motivated and work‑ready candidates, prepared specifically for professional and office‑based environments.

 

What is Path 2 Apprenticeships?

Path 2 Apprenticeships is a fully funded programme, supported by the West Midlands Combined Authority, designed to help employers recruit young people aged 19–29 into business and professional apprenticeships.

Candidates complete a short, structured pre‑employment programme before progressing into an apprenticeship. This means employers can:

  • Trial candidates before committing to an apprenticeship
  • Recruit with confidence
  • Reduce recruitment risk and cost

On successful completion, candidates transition into an apprenticeship with employers paying the National Living Wage.

 

Roles the Programme Supports

This programme is ideal for employers recruiting into:

  • Business Administration
  • Customer Service
  • Finance and Accountancy
  • Office and Professional Support Roles

Candidates are prepared for the expectations of professional workplaces, including customer interaction, digital systems, documentation, and financial processes.

What the Programme Includes for Candidates

Participants receive comprehensive training and support to ensure they are fully workplace‑ready, including:

  • Level 1 Award in Introduction to Sustainability
    Supporting environmentally responsible business practices
  • Level 2 Certificate in Employability and Personal Development
    Strong professional behaviours, teamwork and reliability
  • Digital Skills for the Workplace
    Confident use of office systems and business technology
  • Maths for Business Applications
    Practical numeracy for finance, administration and reporting
  • English and Professional Communication
    Effective written and verbal communication with colleagues and customers
  • Mentoring by Experienced Coaches
    Ongoing guidance throughout the programme
  • Practical Work Experience
    Hands‑on exposure to real business environments

 

Why Choose Path 2 Apprenticeships?

  • No cost to employers – fully funded through WMCA
  • Access to work‑ready candidates prepared for professional roles
  • Reduced recruitment time and costs
  • End‑to‑end support, from candidate matching to apprenticeship transition

 

Financial Incentives for Employers

Employers recruiting apprentices through Path 2 Apprenticeships may be eligible for substantial financial support:

Receive £3,000 for hiring a young person aged 18–24 who has been on Universal Credit for at least six months. Starts June 2026.
From October 2026, SMEs recruiting apprentices aged 16–24 can receive £2,000, paid in two instalments.
Employers will continue to receive an additional £1,000 if the apprentice is: Aged 16–18, or Aged 19–24 with an EHC plan or care‑experienced background
Some incentives can be combined, meaning eligible employers could receive up to £5,000 per apprentice, depending on eligibility.
You’ll pay zero employer National Insurance contributions for apprentices under 25, helping to keep employment costs even lower.

*All incentives are subject to funding availability and eligibility criteria. Our team will guide you through what support applies.

Ready to Strengthen Your Business Workforce?

If you’re looking to recruit apprentices in business administration, customer service or finance, Path 2 Apprenticeships offers a supported, low‑risk route to developing future talent.

Submit an enquiry or speak to our team today, or email jobshop@walsallcollege.ac.uk

Have any questions?
  • Wisemore Campus
  • Littleton Street West
  • Walsall
  • WS2 8ES
  • 01922 657000

Useful Links

 Funding and Incentives
 Apprentice Recruitment
 Apprenticeship FAQs
 Testimonials