Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships are a great, cost-effective way to develop a skilled workforce for your business. They can address skills gaps, improve productivity, and boost your reputation.
Qualification
Our apprenticeships range from Level 2 to Level 5 qualifications.
Length of course
Our Apprenticeships usually take between 12 and 24 months to complete, depending on the level and sector.
Location of study
Where apprentices study will depend on their course, but most involve a combination of online and in-person learning.
Available funding
You could be entitled to full or partial funding for your apprenticeships. Non-levy payers (wage bill less than £3million) could qualify for 95-100% government funding. Levy payers (wage bill over £3million) fully fund through their levy pot.
Apprenticeship sectors
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an apprenticeship?
A mix of work and learning, apprenticeships combine real job experience with structured training, leading to a nationally recognised qualification.
Apprentices are treated just like all the other employees, with a contract of employment and holiday leave.
Can I use apprenticeships to train current staff?
Absolutely. Apprenticeships aren’t just for new starters – they’re ideal for upskilling existing team members of any age.
How are apprenticeships funded?
- Levy-payers (payroll bill over £3 million) fully fund through their apprenticeship levy
- Non-levy payers (payroll bill under £3 million) pay 5% of the training costs, government covers 95%. If the apprentice is 16-21 years old, you may receive 100% government funding
What are my responsibilities when employing an apprentice?
- Provide a contract and appropriate wage based on current National Minimum Wage – GOV.UK
- Allow time for off-the-job training. This is roughly 6 hours per week, depending on the apprenticeship
- Participate in apprenticeship progress reviews every 12 weeks
- Offer a supportive work environment
What is off-the-job training?
Off-the-job training is learning that takes place during working hours but away from daily duties – workshops, training, shadowing, online learning, and more. This is for roughly 6 hours per week, but can vary depending on the apprenticeship.
What is the Apprenticeship Levy?
The Apprenticeship Levy is a UK government initiative that requires employers with an annual payroll of over £3 million to pay 0.5% of their payroll into a fund to support apprenticeship training. If these funds are not used within 24 months, they expire and are returned to the government, meaning employers lose that training budget if it’s not invested in the apprenticeships in time.
Why should I use apprenticeships?
Apprenticeships help to develop loyal, skilled staff while improving productivity, reducing staff turnover, and closing skill gaps.
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