What are apprenticeships?

Apprenticeships combine on and off the job training, enabling employers to get the workforce they need now and in the future.  Investing in apprenticeships can bring a range of business benefits including increased productivity and a more loyal workforce.  

A typical Apprenticeship Framework combines a skills based qualification with a knowledge based qualification plus Key or Functional Skills in Literacy and Numeracy.  Many frameworks are delivered entirely in the workplace however some require day release attendance at the College.

Click here for Apprenticeship Frameworks (link to list of Frameworks and info sheets) supported by Training Solutions

What are the main requirements?

The apprentice must be:

• Employed and provided with a contract of employment
• Paid a minimum training wage of £2.50 per hour in the first year of their apprenticeship (£2.60 from October 2011)
• Allowed to attend college as required or meet with the tutor in the workplace
• Given the opportunity to carry out work that supports their learning programme
• Supported to achieve all elements of the apprenticeship framework

The National Apprenticeship Service has been designed to increase the number of Apprenticeship opportunities and provide a dedicated, responsive service for both employers and learners.

Want to grow your business by taking on an apprentice?

Employers all need a good motivated workforce.  Apprenticeships make a valuable contribution to your business by enabling you to recruit and train new employees or train your existing staff.  Research has highlighted that employers offer apprenticeship places because they understand the benefits that apprentices bring to their business – increased productivity, improved competitiveness and a competent workforce.

The training costs for apprentices aged 16-18 is covered 100% by The National Apprenticeship Service.   For those aged 19+ the training is part subsidised and a one off fee paid by the employer. The employer must pay the apprentice’s salary, issue a Contract of Employment and be committed to providing on the job training opportunities.

Training Solutions is able to support employers in the recruitment and selection of appropriate apprenticeship candidates including the promotion of vacancies to College students who have already completed a programme of appropriate study.

For details of what an apprentice can do for your business and for details of apprenticeship support offered to employers please download the links below:

What can an apprentice do for your business

Apprentceship Support

Interested in becoming an apprentice and earning while you learn?

An apprenticeship is a job with training so you need to already be employed or find suitable employment.  The National Apprenticeship Service’s On Line Vacancy site enables you to search for vacancies in your area.  Don’t be afraid to ask an employer if they would consider taking you on as an apprentice.  Our Training Solutions team will be happy to talk to potential employers to discuss the requirements of an apprenticeship.

New quality assurance for Apprenticeships
 

The Specification of Apprenticeship Standards England (SASE) has been developed by the Skills Funding Agency, National Apprenticeship Service, Department for Education, and the Department for Business Innovation and Skill. It sets out the minimum requirements to be included in a recognised English Apprenticeship framework and will ensure that:
• All apprenticeships provide high quality, nationally recognised qualifications relevant to the skill, trade or occupation of the learner and employer
• All apprenticeships offer individuals appropriate training to achieve a good standard of literacy and numeracy (and ICT where relevant)
• Every apprentice will be provided with a minimum of 280 guided learning hours per year

Please click here for full details of the SASE Details