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We’ve come full circle as the time honoured tradition of learning on the job returns with the added benefit of government funding towards apprenticeships.

Today’s apprenticeship schemes

An apprenticeship in the new millennium is a government funded work placed training programme for people aged 16+ to gain a qualification while earning. It’s a great way for you to help someone build confidence and knowledge in an area of work which interests them while you benefit from their enthusiasm to learn and the fresh insights they may bring to your business. Because you are driving the training and development of your apprentice, you can mould them into becoming a valuable member of your team.

Apprentice wages

As the employer, you are responsible for paying your apprentice. The minimum wage for apprentices is currently £3.50 per hour, so you must pay them at least this much, or you may wish to pay them a higher hourly rate.

How long will an Apprenticeship last?

An apprenticeship can take 1 to 4 years to complete and in the case of school-leavers can be applied for while a student is still at school. The apprentice will usually attend college one day a week to study towards a related qualification for your business.

The levels that can be achieved are:

Intermediate- Level 2  (equivalent to 5 GCSE passes at grades A* to C)
Advanced – Level 3 (equivalent to 2 A level passes)
Higher – Levels 4,5,6 and 7 (equivalent to Foundation degree and above)
Degree – Levels 6 and 7 (equivalent to Bachelor’s or master’s degree)

Does it have to be a school leaver or new recruit?

Apprenticeships are open to people of all ages and your apprentice doesn’t even have to be someone new to your business. You could enrol one of your existing staff members in an apprenticeship, which is a great way to foster skills and nurture the talent already under your roof!

Do I have to employ them at the end of their Apprenticeship?

There’s no law that says that you have to provide employment at the end of the apprenticeship, however you may agree contractually to do this. The whole point of an apprenticeship is to help ensure you have current practical skills and qualifications in your workforce.

Apprenticeship Levy and Funding

If your salary bill is over 3 million pounds per year then you will be required to pay a levy. Contact us at Employer Solutions to find out if you are eligible for funding for your apprentice.

Sarah Seastron FCIPD