Young employees in the workplace
Learn how young employees (16-24) can benefit workplaces, the challenges they face and explore ways employers can support them.
The benefits of employing young people
Young employees bring energy, new ideas and useful skills to workplaces.
Research shows that young people can make workplaces stronger by:
- Being confident with new technologies
- Thinking of new ideas and being creative
- Being flexible and ready to learn, especially when supported
When employers support young employees, they benefit from:
- Employees who stay longer and feel loyal, particularly when early experiences is good
- Increased productivity, as supported young employees gain confidence and skills
- Cost savings, especially where apprenticeships or early-career development programmes are used
Employing and training young people also helps prepare for the future by building a skilled workforce.
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships benefit both young people and employers.
Young people can gain paid work experience, confidence, qualifications and structured development. Employers can build skills in cost-effective way, shaping their future workforce.
Careers Wales have more apprenticeship information for employers.
Business Wales have information on recruiting apprentices.
Page last reviewed: 9th January 2026
