Essential Guide to Apprenticeships 2022

PARENT FAQ’ s What is 20% off-the-job training? It is a statutory requirement for an apprentice to spend 20% of their paid working hours ‘off-the-job’. This time will be spent receiving training to gain the skills needed to complete their apprenticeship. The 20% off-the-job training can be delivered flexibly, by either the College or employer, as part of each day, one day per week or as a block release. The employer and College will decide on the best model. How can I tell if it is a good apprenticeship? A high wage doesn’t always mean that an apprenticeship is good. Look out for a role that is varied, has staff benefits, extra training opportunities as well as progression opportunities. All of the above shows the employer is looking to invest in the apprentice to develop them personally and professionally. Financial support for apprentices? Apprentices can benefit from various money saving schemes including: • An NUS Apprentice Extra Card - the card costs £11 per year to set up but provides apprentices with massive discounts on high street and online retailers. • A variety of travel discounts - apprentices aged 16-25 can apply for a railcard saving up to a third on train fares. • A £1,000 bursary is available for care leavers aged 16-24, to help the transition into the workplace. How much do apprentices get paid? The current national minimum wage for an apprentice is £4.81 (as of April 2022) but this can vary depending on age and length of time on the programme. Any apprentices aged 19+, must be paid at least the National Minimum Wage rate for their age, after their first 12 months in their apprenticeship. What apprenticeship levels are there? There are various levels of apprenticeships dependant on current skills and qualifications. Apprenticeship qualifications are just as substantial as alternative study routes and can still lead to university, upon completion of a level 3 apprenticeship. See the table below for an explanation of apprenticeship equivalent levels: Name Level Equivalent Educational Level Intermediate Apprenticeship 2 5 GCSEs (grades 9-4) Advanced Apprenticeship 3 2 A levels, 4 AS Levels, Level 3 Diploma/ Certificate Higher Apprenticeship 4, 5, 6 and 7 Foundation, Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree Degree Apprenticeship 6 and 7 Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree 16