32 | THOUGHT LEADERSHIP
Mark Bremner, Director, MBKB, discusses the growth of payroll apprenticeships over time and how these qualifications set apprentices up for life Success with payroll apprenticeships
S tepping into the world of talent meets opportunity, and learning genuinely changes lives. At MBKB, that’s exactly the journey we set out to create. In fact, we pioneered something in the UK that had never been done before: becoming the first provider in the country to offer payroll apprenticeships. Since launching the programme, over 3,500 payroll professionals have trained with MBKB, spanning both the public and private sectors, and supporting apprenticeships can feel like joining an exciting mission, one where organisations across multiple industries. From local authorities and National Health Service bodies to small and medium- sized enterprises, national employers and specialist providers, our payroll apprentices are trusted to deliver accuracy, compliance and professionalism in environments where getting it right truly matters. Ofsted ‘outstanding’: quality that delivers real impact Quality sits at the heart of everything we do, and our Ofsted ‘outstanding’ rating is a powerful endorsement of that commitment. ‘Outstanding’ isn’t a label, it’s evidence of exceptional teaching, meaningful learner support and outcomes which make a real difference.
valued by employers for their professionalism, accuracy and adaptability. Employers consistently tell us that MBKB-trained apprentices don’t just meet expectations; they raise the bar. Skills for life, not just for the job What truly sets apprenticeships apart is our focus on skills for life. Payroll may be the specialism, but the development goes much further. Apprentices gain problem-solving capability, digital confidence, communication skills and resilience, all essential in a world of fast-changing legislation, technology and workforce expectations. Thanks to our flexible delivery model, learners are supported in a way which fits around real working lives. Whether balancing demanding roles, family commitments or career transitions, apprentices are never forced into a one-size-fits-all approach. Flexibility isn’t an add-on – it’s built into the delivery DNA. Future-proofing careers through innovation and artificial intelligence (AI) As the payroll profession evolves, MBKB continues to lead from the front. Through ongoing AI innovation and smart use of technology, we ensure apprentices are competent for today’s roles and prepared for tomorrow’s workforce. By integrating digital tools, forward- thinking curriculum design and data-led insights, we’ve helped payroll professionals to future-proof their careers. Apprentices leave with the confidence to adapt, upskill and grow, whether that’s moving into senior payroll roles, leadership positions or specialist functions which didn’t exist a decade ago. A track record built on trust
by accident. It happens because employers trust us and apprenticeships. Apprentices feel supported, and outcomes speak for themselves. Our success with payroll apprenticeships reflects deep collaboration with industry, an unwavering focus on quality and a belief that vocational education should open doors. But don’t just take our word for it. Ofsted commented: “Tutors support apprentices to build their knowledge and skills incrementally over time, accessing more complex content once apprentices have the foundation knowledge they need to do so.” “Apprentices have a considerable impact on their workplace, making improvements to their organisations.” “Apprentices gain a deep understanding of the subject they are studying and can apply this in the workplace.” And what do the apprentices say? “MBKB have been an exceptional apprenticeship provider. I am extremely impressed with the quality of work they produced and how much they helped me in my apprenticeship journey. The tutors are all so friendly and I enjoyed every minute of my time in my apprenticeship sessions because of them.” “I have had a great experience with MBKB throughout my Level 3 payroll qualification and I have managed to make great progress. My tutor is always on hand for support and lessons are always explained well and at a good pace. The curriculum is really useful and I really enjoy applying what i have learnt in my job!” Looking ahead Being first in the UK was only the beginning. Being ‘outstanding’ confirms we’re on the right path. But our ambition remains firmly forward-facing: expanding pathways, deepening innovation and continuing to support payroll professionals across sectors to build confident, sustainable and future- ready careers. Payroll keeps organisations moving, and the apprenticeships ensure the people behind it thrive.
For our payroll apprentices, that means learners who are confident in complex payroll legislation and systems, equipped with transferable skills that last far beyond assessment. They’re
Training more than 3,500 payrollers doesn’t happen
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