Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

An apprenticeship is a type of work-based training programme that combines practical on-the-job learning with formal face-to-face or online training. 

During an apprenticeship, apprentices work alongside experienced colleagues to gain hands-on experience and develop practical skills. They also attend off-the-job training sessions to learn the theoretical aspects of their role and industry. At the end of an apprenticeship, apprentices receive a nationally recognised qualification, which demonstrates that they have gained the knowledge and skills required to perform their job effectively.

Just like formal education, there are different grades and levels to achieve in apprenticeships.

Level 2 apprenticeship is equivalent to 5 GCSE passes (9-4)

Level 3 apprenticeship is equivalent to 2 A-levels passes

Level 4 apprenticeship is equivalent to a Foundation Degree

Level 5 apprenticeship is equivalent to a Foundation Degree or above

Level 6 apprenticeship is equivalent to a BA Hons Degree

Level 7 apprenticeship is equivalent to a Masters Degree (MBA).

If you want to offer apprenticeships in your business in England, you will need to register for an apprenticeship service account. The apprenticeship service is a digital platform that enables employers to manage their apprenticeship programmes, including finding apprenticeship training providers, choosing apprenticeship standards, selecting an apprenticeship training programme, advertising apprenticeship vacancies, and paying for apprenticeship training.

The apprenticeship service is free to use, and you can register for an account online. Once you have registered, you can access a range of tools and resources to help you manage your apprenticeship programme, including information on government funding, apprenticeship standards, and training providers.

Here is the link to set up your account.

As an employer of an apprentice, you are expected to provide a safe and supportive working environment for the apprentice to develop their skills and knowledge. You will need to ensure that the apprentice receives the necessary training and support to complete their apprenticeship programme, both on the job and through off-the-job training. You will also need to pay the apprentice a wage in line with their age and experience, as well as any benefits and entitlements that your other employees receive.

You will need to work closely with the apprenticeship training provider to develop and deliver the apprenticeship programme, including setting clear objectives and providing regular feedback to the apprentice on their progress. You may also be required to provide evidence of the apprentice’s progress and complete assessments or evaluations as part of the apprenticeship programme.

In addition, you may be eligible for government funding to help cover the cost of the apprentice’s training and support. To access this funding, you will need to register for an apprenticeship service account and agree to the terms and conditions of the apprenticeship programme.

For employers who pay the Apprenticeship Levy

Employers with an annual pay bill exceeding £3 million pay the Apprenticeship Levy. Payments are collected monthly through PAYE, with a levy of 0.5% payable on the portion of the pay bill above £3 million.

For employers who do not pay the Apprenticeship Levy

For new apprenticeships starting on or after 1 August 2026, employers who do not pay the Apprenticeship Levy can receive 100% funding for eligible apprentices aged 16–24 at the start of their apprenticeship. This covers training and assessment costs up to the apprenticeship’s funding band maximum.

Levy transfers to fund apprenticeship costs

Employers can also receive a levy transfer from another business to cover 100% of eligible apprenticeship training and assessment costs, up to the funding band maximum. Businesses of any size can search the government portal for levy transfer opportunities.

Once you have set up an online account on the Apprenticeship Service you can use the service to advertise your apprenticeship vacancies for free on the “Find an apprenticeship” website where potential apprentices can find and apply for your vacancies. Once you have advertised your apprenticeship, you can then screen and interview applicants to select the right candidate for your business.

Off-the-job training helps apprentices develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours required by their apprenticeship standard. It involves learning outside their normal day-to-day duties.

For apprenticeships starting on or after 1 August 2025, each apprenticeship standard has a published minimum number of off-the-job training hours. The previous flat requirement of six hours per week no longer applies to these new starts.

Off-the-job training must be directly relevant to the apprenticeship and can include a range of activities, such as:

• Classroom-based learning: This can include attending workshops, lectures or other types of formal training delivered by an approved apprenticeship training provider.
• E-learning: This can include online courses or other forms of digital learning.
• Work-based learning: This can include shadowing, mentoring or working on projects that are directly related to the apprenticeship.
• Industry visits: This can include visiting other companies or organisations to gain insight into different working practices or processes.

There are several benefits of apprenticeships for employers, including:

1. Developing a skilled workforce: Apprenticeships provide a structured training programme that helps employers develop a highly skilled workforce that can meet the specific needs of their business.
2. Cost-effective training: Apprenticeships offer a cost-effective way of training staff as they are partially funded by the government, reducing the overall cost of training for the employer.
3. Improved productivity: Apprenticeships help to improve the productivity of businesses by providing a skilled and motivated workforce that can contribute to the growth of the company.
4. Tailored training: Apprenticeships can be tailored to meet the specific needs of a business, ensuring that the training is relevant and beneficial to the employer.
5. Loyalty and retention: Apprenticeships can help to increase staff loyalty and retention, as apprentices are more likely to stay with a company that has invested in their training and development.
6. Meeting skills gaps: Apprenticeships can help employers address skills gaps in their workforce, ensuring that they have the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a rapidly changing business environment.

Overall, apprenticeships offer significant benefits to employers, helping them to develop a skilled and motivated workforce that can contribute to the long-term success of their business.