A FORWARD-THINKING college with links to businesses across South Lanarkshire is urging more employers to back Scottish apprentices as part of a national campaign. South Lanarkshire College is keen to highlight the value apprenticeships can bring, not only to the individual, but also to companies and the wider economy. The theme of this year’s Scottish Apprenticeship Week (which runs until March 5) is Business Backing Talent. All week, staff and students at the college are sharing their stories, while its business partners will offer insight into the benefits to employers of taking on apprentices. Training and Employment Advisor Elise Bonini explains: “There are many benefits to employers who decide to back talent by taking on an apprentice, including the chance to strengthen and upskill their existing workforce; the opportunity to increase productivity and the knock-on effect of helping to improve staff morale and service and product quality.