Tag: minimum

  • Top things to consider when employing an apprentice

    Top things to consider when employing an apprentice

    This only serves to highlight the fact that apprenticeships are becoming an increasingly popular career route for school leavers over the past few years.

    In an increasingly competitive labour market, apprenticeships play a vital role in equipping young people with the skills they need to succeed in the labour market, helping them get their foot on that all important first rung of the career ladder.

    What’s more their popularity looks only set to continue with the school leavers now having to remain in education or training until 18.

    Employing an apprentice can be a great way of boosting your business; 96% of employers who take on an apprentice report benefits to their business whilst 72% report improved productivity as a direct result of employing an apprentice.

    However like any other employee there are some important things to be clear on when taking on apprentice.

    Key things tips to consider when you are considering taking on an apprentice include:

    Be clear on pay and hours

    An apprentice will normally work a minimum of 30 hours per week and should receive a minimum wage that is determined by their age and programme.

    If you take on an apprentice as an employer you must ensure you have an apprenticeship contract drawn up and signed by both parties. Otherwise you will be legally obliged to pay the national minimum wage rate, rather than the £2.68 an hour 2013/14 apprenticeship rate.

    As with other members of staff failure to pay the correct minimum wage could result in a fine of £20,000 and being publicly named and shamed.

    Details on wage rates for apprentices can be found on the National Apprenticeship Service website.

    Be clear on your obligations

    It is important to realise that once to choose to take on an apprentice you are committed to provide them with employment for as long as it takes to complete their programme or a minimum of 12 months, whichever is greater, subject to satisfactory performance.

    You can only terminate an apprenticeship early in very rare cases and not simply because you are unhappy with their performance. Also, you cannot make an apprentice redundant unless the workplace is closing. If an apprentice has their contract terminated unfairly, they can receive significantly higher than normal damages for wrongful dismissal to compensate them for loss of wages, loss of training and loss of status. If they have the required qualifying service, they can also claim compensation for unfair dismissal.

    As with other employees, apprentices must receive a minimum 20 days holiday per year plus bank holidays.

    If in doubt get advice

    As with all employment matters it is important to seek advice if needs be. The Forum’s business advice team can provide advice on all employment related issues including apprenticeships. For further information visit www.fpb.org

    Image: Apprentice via Shutterstock


  • Dr. Robert Lamb of Eastern Florida State Honored in Florida College System Activities Association Hall of Fame – Space Coast Daily

    Dr. Robert Lamb of Eastern Florida State Honored in Florida College System Activities Association Hall of Fame – Space Coast Daily

    shares his talents to the benefit of many through the Brevard Community Chorus

    Dr. Robert Lamb of Eastern Florida State Honored in Florida College System Activities Association Hall of Fame – Space Coast Daily

    Dr. Robert Lamb’s Big Music Moment

    Who Is He?

    Dr. Robert Lamb, the ever‑energetic music professor at Eastern Florida State College, has just snagged a spot in the prestigious Florida College System Activities Association Hall of Fame. Yes, this isn’t a one‑off concert gig—this is a lifetime of rock‑steady accomplishments!

    What’s the Hall of Fame All About?

    The FCSAA Hall of Fame isn’t some glittery trophy cabinet reserved for campus stars alone. It’s a mash‑up of:

    • Admins, coaches, and advisors who’ve put in a decade of hard work
    • Officials who keep the games and ceremonies running smoothly
    • Students whose campus life shines brightly
    • Other nominees who’ve made a splash in statewide college contributions

    Peers handpick the honorees based on community impact, student engagement, and a pot‑pourri of achievements.

    How It Was Celebrated

    The accolade was crowned during the FCSAA Winter Music Symposium in January at Jacksonville University—a setting that sounds more like a rock‑in concert than a Hall of Fame ceremony.

    Word from the Top

    College President Dr. Jim Richey rolled up his sleeves and said:

    “Dr. Lamb is the perfect example of how our EFSC faculty goes the extra mile for their students and our local community. Not only does he put forth an incredible effort in the classroom, engaging his students, but he also shares his talents to benefit many through the Brevard Community Chorus. This is a well‑deserved honor.”

    Why It Matters

    Dr. Lamb’s journey reminds us that a classroom isn’t just a place where students learn notes; it’s a stage where they feel heard, celebrated, and empowered. His work with the Brevard Community Chorus shows that music isn’t confined to campus—it’s here to enrich the whole community.

    In short, the Hall of Fame isn’t just a name on a plaque—it’s a living testament to the heart and hustle behind a career that keeps the music playing in every corner of Florida’s college scene.

    Dr. Robert Lamb: Cornerstone of EFSC Music – Hall of Fame Star

    Big News! Eastern Florida State College is buzzing with pride because Professor of Music, Dr. Robert Lamb, has just been inducted into the Florida College System Activities Association Hall of Fame. This is a shining moment for our campus and a testament to Dr. Lamb’s lifelong dedication to music education.

    What Dr. Lamb Brings to the Table

    • Chair of Choral Affairs: He runs all the choir programs within the Performing and Visual Arts Department, ensuring every student has a chance to sing, grow, and shine.
    • FCSAA Rust‑in‑Root Volunteer: He’s been a key player in the Winter Symposium, even leading the Student Artist Competition from 2005‑2008 and again from 2019‑2024.
    • Busy Bee in the Music Community: Memberships span the American Choral Directors Association, American Guild of Organists, Chorus America, and the American Musicology Association, among others.

    Testimony from a Colleague

    Dr. Chanji Kim (EFSC Professor of Music): “Robert works above and beyond and cares so much about our music programs and students! I could write a 100‑page dissertation on all that he does and the positive impact he has on so many students each year at EFSC.”

    Dr. Lamb’s Own Words

    “It’s been a pleasure to serve the student musicians in Florida’s state colleges over the years,” he says.
    “I’m constantly amazed by the poise and talent of our students, and I’m proud to work for an organization that offers scholarship assistance to help them continue their music studies at 4‑year colleges and universities.”

    Why It Matters

    This accolade isn’t just about a title; it’s about the countless melodies, memories, and milestones Dr. Lamb has seeded across our campus. His passion fuels bright futures for students who might otherwise not have the resources to pursue higher education in the arts.

    Want to Learn More?

    Eastern Florida State College offers a vibrant performing‑arts program that’s open to the whole community. Get in touch to find out how you can join, support, or explore our courses and events.

    Cheers to Dr. Lamb – Our Community Hero

    College President Dr. Jim Richey puts it all together in one powerful shout‑out:

    Why Dr. Lamb deserves the spotlight

    • In‑class wizardry – He turns every lesson into a thrilling adventure that sparks curiosity.
    • Community champ – He doesn’t stop at the classroom gates, spreading his talent with the Brevard Community Chorus.
    • Beyond the syllabus – An everyday go‑getter who pulls students and people alike toward brighter horizons.

    “Dr. Lamb is the perfect example of how our EFSC faculty goes the extra mile for their students and for our local community. Not only does he put forth an incredible effort in the classroom engaging his students, but he also shares his talents to the benefit of many through the Brevard Community Chorus. This is a well‑deserved honor.”

    Bottom line

    In a nutshell, Dr. Lamb is proof that a little extra effort goes a long way. His teaching beats, his singing solos, and his heart make him a legend – and oh, what a legend we’re lucky to have!

    HOT OFF THE PRESS! February 10, 2025 Space Coast Daily News – Brevard County’s Best Newspaper

    The Space Coast Daily News Is On Fire!

    Hey there, fellow space junkies and local vibe‑seekers! Just dropped a brand‑new article on the Space Coast Daily News, and let me tell you— it’s hotter than a fresh‑off‑the‑launchpad rocket on a humid July afternoon.

    What’s the Buzz?

    • New Rocket Launch Countdown: NASA’s latest shuttle has a doomsday schedule that will have our fence‑post enthusiasts doing floor‑trembles.
    • Local Space‑Tourism Boom: The city council’s got a fantastic plan to turn every parking lot into a green‑earth hub. Safe to say, Shout‑out to our taco trucks for adding “extra space” after every taco.
    • Shuttle Leak? Nope! Rumors about a broken spaceship? Pfft. Don’t be a space‑scrapper; the official comments say everything’s as smooth as a cucumber Hydrant.
    • Bring Your Own Coffee: The press release mentions that the daily news will keep you caffeinated while you prep for the launch. Seriously, who needs coffee when you’re staring at the cosmos?

    Why You Should Care

    Because, honestly, who wouldn’t want to be one of the first to see the day we’ll send both the human and the entire latte accomplice fleet into orbit? And if you’re in Brevard County, that news article is your ticket to riding that space‑wave.

    Get Involved

    The article invites citizens to:

    • Attend the launch event at the NASA Visitor Center (tickets are free—unless you want a VIP view where you can actually see the rocket fly by on a panic of the kind that turns your stomach into a Black Hole.)
    • Sign up for the Build‑Your‑Own Rocket Workshop (follow the guidelines from take 2 to tap 3, or just stabilize your own rocket fuselage).
    • Submit your star‑story for the next Space Coast Daily newsletter; the most creative tale will get a shout‑out… and maybe a free popcorn.

    Last Word?

    So buckle up—wich a ride? The Space Coast Daily News is laying down the track for an epic wave of space adventure. Don’t miss the best-sellers of the upcoming quarter, or you might become that ‘space‑bored’ neighbor who reads more than the daily news. Keep your eyes on the sky, people, and stay tuned for the next hot-off-the-press, bite‑size, crystal balls.