What is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a full-time paid job, typically comprising 30+ hours per week, coupled with a structured training programme.
Apprentices divide their time between experiential learning in the workplace and dedicated off-the-job training sessions. An apprenticeship includes at least 20% off-the-job training, typically totaling a minimum of six hours per week. Apprentices receive the same contractual benefits as other employees, including minimum wage, holiday pay, etc. Through this blended approach, apprentices gain technical knowledge, practical experience, and broader skills and behaviours crucial for their current roles and future careers. A workplace educational supervisor, also known as a mentor, needs to be appointed to support apprentices throughout their programme.
Off-the-job training is a vital and mandatory part of every apprenticeship programme. It refers to any learning undertaken by the apprentice during their paid working hours that is outside of their usual day-to-day duties, but directly related to the development of the knowledge, skills, and behaviours required by their apprenticeship standard.
It’s important to note that off-the-job training must take place during the apprentice’s normal working hours, this means the hours they are paid for, excluding any overtime. Recently, the Department for Education (DfE) introduced changes to how off-the-job training is measured and delivered. Rather than applying a single standard approach across all apprenticeships, the requirement is now tailored to each apprenticeship programme. This means that the minimum number of off-the-job training hours an apprentice must complete will differ depending on the specific apprenticeship they are enrolled on.
These hours are not optional. Apprentices must meet the minimum off-the-job training requirement in order to progress to the gateway stage, the point at which they are assessed for successful completion of their apprenticeship. If this requirement is not met, they cannot move forward, which may cause delays and affect both the apprentice’s progress and their apprenticeship duration.
Employers play a key role in supporting this part of the apprenticeship. This includes allowing your apprentice time within their normal working hours to complete their off-the-job learning, working closely with the training provider to plan and structure training time effectively, and creating a supportive environment.
If you are unsure about the required off-the-job hours for a particular apprenticeship or need support in structuring this into your apprentice’s schedule, our team is here to help guide you through the process.
Skills4 have helped me grow the services available in my pharmacy. The apprentices they have helped place in my business have all been highly qualified and well suited to the busy work that comes with it.
David -
Skills4 helped me excel in my career.
Sam -
KSBs are essential soft skills that apprentices must achieve before they are assessed at their End Point Assessment (EPA).
Knowledge
The information the apprentice will learn. Covering theory and technical skills. Some of this will be specific to the job, and some will be general skills that are useful in lots of different roles
Skills
Taking what the apprentice has learnt and using it to do their job. Apprentices will pick these up through training and experience, but they should be about more than just the day-to-day tasks.
Behaviours
Involves demonstrating appropriate professional conduct within the organisational context. While some behaviors are inherent, many can be cultivated and are highly transferable across various occupations, including teamwork, adaptability, and professionalism.
Apprenticeships are for everyone aged 16+, living in England, not in full-time education, who is looking to start a role in their chosen career, upskills in their current job or seek a new career path.
Why choose a Skills4 apprenticeship?
Why employ an apprentice?
Employing apprentices is a proven strategy for nurturing talent and fostering employee retention. Studies show that 80% of companies investing in apprenticeships experience improvements in staff retention. With 86% of employers struggling to find suitable talent, apprenticeships help bridge skills gaps, enhance retention, and promote the acquisition of relevant sector skills. Additionally, some apprenticeships offer professional recognition, further validating an apprentice’s competency.