Apprenticeships

APPRENTICESHIPS

An apprenticeship is a paid job where the employee learns and gains valuable experiences. On this page, you can find out more about apprenticeships.

On 18 March, 2024, the Prime Minister announced a set of reforms to support businesses to deliver more apprenticeship places and cut red tape for SMEs. From 1st April 2024, the Government will:

  • fully fund apprenticeships in small businesses by paying the full cost of training for anyone up to age 21
  • increase the amount of funding that employers who are paying the apprenticeship levy can pass onto other businesses. This will increase to 50% from 25%, allowing small firms hire more apprentices and fill skills gaps.

WHAT IS AN APPRENTICESHIP?

An apprenticeship is a paid job where the employee learns and gains valuable experiences.

Alongside on-the-job training, apprentices spend at least 20% of their working hours completing classroom-based learning with a college, university or training provider which leads to a nationally recognised qualification.

An apprenticeship includes:

  • paid employment with holiday leave
  • hands-on-experience in a sector/role of interest
  • at least 20% off-the-job training
  • formal assessment which leads to a nationally recognised qualification

WHO CAN APPLY?

An apprenticeship is a great paid work opportunity for people over the age of 16 in England who are:

  • early in their career
  • looking to upskill in their current job
  • looking for a career-change
  • not in full-time education

APPRENTICESHIP LEVELS

Different apprenticeship levels equate to different qualification levels.

An apprenticeship can start at any level, but some may require

  • previous qualifications such as English or maths GCSEs
  • additional training in English or maths to ensure the apprentice is at the right level

One of the following qualification levels will be achieved depending on the apprenticeship level:

APPRENTICESHIP BENEFITS

Apprenticeships are an exciting paid option for anyone wanting to gain experience, upskill or change career because they offer the chance to earn a wage whilst they work and study.

There are many benefits to completing an apprenticeship, which include:

  • experience and skills development
  • a nationally recognised qualification (with no tuition fees)
  • employee benefits and a wage
  • exposure to industry professionals

FIND OUT MORE

You can find out more about apprenticeships, including all accredited apprenticeship vacancies here