JobStart Apprenticeship Pathway Employer Information Session

Online event will highlight the JobStart Apprenticeship Pathway and the support available to help employers address key skills gaps.

JobStart Apprenticeship Pathway is an initiative led by Belfast City Council in partnership with the Department for Communities (DfC) and the Department for the Economy (DfE).

This innovative scheme offers employers a straightforward way to recruit new talent: it begins with a fully funded Jobstart placement (6–9 months with wages covered by DfC), and seamlessly transitions successful candidates into an all-age apprenticeship with the same employer - providing ongoing training and development at no additional cost.

What this means for employers

Through JobStart, you get a government-funded trainee with their salary guaranteed for 6 months at the National Minimum Wage (plus employer contributions and in-work skills development). After JobStart, Belfast City Council helps you access ApprenticeshipsNI, which offers qualifications up to Level 3 for your employee. In total, a combined investment of up to £20k per employee is available.

Information webinar

Belfast City Council is hosting a webinar where you can learn more about this initiative, including eligibility, how to get involved, and the support available.

Webinar details

Date: Thursday 18 December 2025
Time: 3pm - 3:45pm
Cost: Free

Register for the JobStart Apprenticeship Pathway webinar.

First published 15 December 2025