Apprenticeships Frequently asked questions

An apprenticeship is a structured training programme that combines on-the-job experience with off the job learning. Apprenticeships are ideal for upskilling existing employees or are a way to bring fresh talent into an organisation. As an employer, you can get funding from the government to help pay for apprenticeship training.

There are four types of apprenticeship, ranging from intermediate to degree level:

Existing Employees
Apprenticeships are an ideal way to upskill your current workforce. If you have full-time staff over the age of 16 who do not yet have a relevant qualification in the area they are working, you can access training for them through the Apprenticeship route.

New Recruits
Apprenticeships are also a cost-effective way to attract fresh talent. If you would like to employ a new member of staff as an Apprentice, we can help. We offer a free recruitment service, ensuring only the best candidates are selected for interview. There is no upper age limit for those looking to start an Apprenticeship.

An apprenticeship is a minimum of one year, and can take up to 5 years to complete depending on their level. (it is a minimum of 15 months with gateway and EPA)

There are several steps to taking on an apprentice.

1. Choose an apprenticeship for your business (and relevant to the job role)
2. We will work together on the apprenticeship programme that you have chosen
3. Check what training funding you can get
4. Create an account - you need this to manage funding and recruit apprentices
5. Advertise your apprenticeship (Vacancy) - find out how to create an advert or give us permission to do this for you
6. Make an apprenticeship agreement and training plan with us

You can manage the recruitment process or ask us to handle it on your behalf.
An apprentice must:

• Be 16 or over
• Not already be in full-time education
• Be living in England and,
• Be a UK resident for 3+ years

As an employer, your legal obligation is to provide apprentices with a minimum of 6 hours of off-the-job training time to support their studies. This can include work-based projects, personal tutor contact, taught blocks, independent study and workplace mentor meetings.

The minimum duration for an apprenticeship is 12 (15) months. During this period, the apprentice must work at least 30 hours per week, including any off-the-job training. If the apprentice works less than 30 hours per week, or if a part-time working pattern is required, you must discuss with us about how to extend the apprenticeship accordingly.

A degree apprenticeship lets you work and study for a degree at the same time. You will gain industry experience, earn a salary, and pay no tuition fees towards your qualification.

Please get in touch with our team via email or call 01509 515461 to learn more about degree apprenticeships.

Employers in England have access to a variety of apprenticeship funding schemes, including government funding at a national level, as well as a range of regional and local grants and Levy transfer schemes. No matter the size of your company, we can assist you in navigating the various routes to funding an apprenticeship.

Apprenticeship Levy details