What is an apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships are work based programmes that enable young people and adults to gain nationally recognised qualifications through a mix of training models in college and in the workplace. Apprentices are either new or existing employees who have signed up to an Apprenticeship through their employer or individuals who have been matched with an employer to start a career in their chosen occupation. Apprentices ensure that your workforce has the practical skills and qualifications your organisation needs now and in the future.
How does it work?
All Apprentices must be in paid employed and working a minimum of 30 hours a week before we can offer them a training programme. The maximum a 16 – 18 year old can work is 40 hours a week and this includes time out of the workplace for attending training sessions either at work or college.
How much should I pay an apprentice?
The government has accepted a recommendation from the Low Pay Commission (LCP) to introduce an Apprentice minimum wage. This is reviewed annually. The rate will apply to Apprentices under 19 and Apprentices aged 19* and over. Find out more about national minimum wage and national living wage rates.
Can anyone over the age of 16 undertake an Apprenticeship?
Not everyone is eligible to undertake an Apprenticeship. To discuss the entry requirements, please give us a call on 01254 292500.
Can I get help recruiting a suitable apprentice?
Yes. Once we receive a completed application form, we will invite applicants to college to undertake an initial assessment and interview. We will provide them with more information, answer any questions and inform them as to whether they have been accepted on to their chosen Apprenticeship. We will look at the employer vacancies we have and we will discuss these with the potential Apprentices. We will send applicants CVs out to employers so they can shortlist applicants and arrange interviews.
Do I have to pay my apprentice when they are released for training?
Yes. The law states Apprentices have the right to have paid time off for training. It is also in your interest to give employees on Apprenticeship programmes reasonable paid time off for training that benefits the business.
When you assess learners in the workplace will it disrupt my business?
All individuals wishing to undertake an Apprenticeship must be assessed in English and Maths. All we ask is for employers to give as much support as possible in this process. Once the programme starts, work based assessments involve the assessors observing and providing guidance to Apprentices whilst they are carrying out their day to day job role. Progress reviews will be completed every 10 weeks between the Assessor, Learner and a Manager, Supervisor or Mentor from the organisation.
What is an apprenticeship standard?
Apprenticeship standards are replacing the old frameworks. The new standards were introduced as part of the Government's major apprenticeship reforms. The standards represent a shift from assessing individual learning to wider Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours designed and implemented by employers. Each standards contents can be viewed on the Institute for Apprenticeships.
