The MCS Foundation is encouraging heat pump installers to apply for grants of up to £2,000 if they take on an apprentice from the new Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprenticeship training courses.
The Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprenticeship is the UK’s first apprenticeship dedicated to training heat pump engineers, a statement said. The apprenticeship was developed through a partnership between MCS, installers and the government’s apprenticeships body IfATE. Last year it was selected as one of six “green apprenticeships” to mark the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III.
The apprenticeship is now being rolled out across the country, with 20 training providers listed as offering the apprenticeship for students.
The MCS Foundation is offering grants of up to £2,000 to employers who take on an apprentice. The grants are available after an apprentice has completed six months of employment.
Alastair Mumford, programmes director at the MCS Foundation, said: “The Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprenticeship is a hugely significant part of building a workforce for the future. Hiring an apprentice brings many benefits for businesses, including bringing in new skills and improving your local brand.
“The UK will need to massively ramp up training and recruitment into the heat pump sector as the market grows. To support that growth, we are delighted to be offering grants for installers to encourage taking on apprentices.”