Apprenticeships

Apprentices learn through a combination of on and off-the-job training. This hands-on approach to learning means they gain valuable industry experience.

We offer a wide variety of apprenticeships across a range of industry areas, including:

• Accounting and Banking
• Automotive
• Business and Administration (including professional and management and marketing)
• Childcare, Health and Social Care
• Construction
• Engineering and Manufacturing
• Hospitality, Retail and Customer Service
• Insurance
• IT and Digital
• Teaching and Education

This depends on the type of apprenticeship and the level. On average an apprenticeship can take up to 18 months, but may be longer for more advanced programmes.

When you recruit an apprentice you would pay them like any other member of staff. The minimum wage for a young apprentice is £4.81 per hour, however, most employers pay more in order to recruit the best candidates.

You will also be required to contribute to the training costs, which again vary based on the type of apprenticeship. However, there is a range of support and funding options available, including the Apprenticeship Levy for larger organisations.

Current rates

These rates are for the National Living Wage (for those aged 23 and over) and the National Minimum Wage (for those of at least school leaving age). The rates change on 1 April every year.

Apprentices

Apprentices are entitled to the apprentice rate if they’re either:

• aged under 19
• aged 19 or over and in the first year of their apprenticeship

Apprentices are entitled to the minimum wage for their age if they both:

• are aged 19 or over
• have completed the first year of their apprenticeship

Depending on the type of apprenticeship the apprentice will learn through a combination of on-the-job learning and off-the-job training. Off-the-job can be delivered either in one of our centres, or at your premises.

When you recruit an apprentice it is a commitment for both the apprentice and you. You will need to support them every step of the way and work with your dedicated apprenticeship assessor to ensure you are helping them achieve.

As mentioned, you will receive a dedicated assessor who will guide you through the entire process. They will provide you with an apprenticeship delivery plan which will give you a step-by-step guide on what to expect along the way and all the support you may need.

If you are an SME and are looking to recruit an apprentice you can take advantage of the Levy Matchmaking. This means your company is not required to pay the 5% co-investment. Find out more here.