THE RSPCA is working with colleges to transform training within its organisation.

The charity and Chichester College have teamed up to provide apprenticeships to staff, highlighting the different ways employers can embrace them.

The charity has so far signed up nine members of staff at its Horsham headquarters to apprenticeships with Chichester College, with more set to follow later this year.

It is the first stage in the charity’s master plan to transform the way it offers skills development, ensuring investment in staff without compromising vital charity funds.

John Wilkins, head of volunteering and apprenticeships at the RSPCA, said: “Following the introduction of the new apprenticeship levy back in April last year, we could see the benefits that the new scheme would bring to the RSPCA.

“As a charity, we have a moral obligation to ensure we are delivering value for money, so we needed to make sure the levy was being spent properly and we were investing in people who have been working for us and committed to the RSPCA in the first phase before bringing in new staff on apprenticeship schemes.

“We looked at our skills gaps, at roles that we find it hard to recruit and retain and considered what apprenticeships could offer our teams.

“We invited everyone to let us know if they would be interested in apprenticeships.

“I was expecting that around two per cent of our staff would be interested in apprenticeships.

“I was very pleased that around 11 per cent wanted to take advantage of this fantastic opportunity.”

Julie Kapsalis, managing director (commercial) at Chichester College Group, said: “We are proud to have developed a range of apprenticeship options that are benefiting staff at the RSPCA.

“Apprenticeships aren’t always about recruiting new people – actually they work very well for existing staff, giving them development and qualifications.”