How do Apprenticeships work?
Apprenticeship training blends practice and theory, letting your apprentice gain knowledge and skills that will make them a well-rounded employee.
So how do apprenticeships work? You provide the workplace learning, teaching them everything you want them to know, molding them from the start. They then also get 20% of their time doing off-the-job training. This could be a day in college, online learning or personal development time, but no matter the format it will give them the time to practice anything they’re unsure of, or learn new skills.
When the apprenticeship comes to an end, your apprentice will sit an endpoint assessment, which may be backed-up up by coursework like assessment plans. The endpoint assessment will determine how well the apprentice has done and will grade them accordingly. When they’ve passed, it’s then up to you if you want to keep the apprentice as part of your team.
Apprenticeship Level
- Intermediate apprenticeships
(Level 2) - Advanced apprenticeships
(Level 3) - Higher apprenticeships
(Level 4 & 5) - Degree apprenticeships
(Levels 6 & 7)
Qualification
-
Aimed at those new to the role, this entry level builds apprentices knowledge and skills from the ground up.
-
This is for those who have a basic knowledge of the subject area, and wish to take this to an advanced level. This can include supervisory and leadership skills.
-
Called a higher apprenticeship, this is equivalent to the first or second year of a bachelors degree, level 4 is aimed at those with expertise in their area, while level 5 is for those with specialist knowledge of their field.
- Level 6 and 7 are the equivalent to a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree respectively. These are developed by universities, employers and professional bodies working in partnership, and combine working with part-time university study
Hiring an apprentice is beneficial to you, to the apprentice and to your business. Firstly, the cost is lower than hiring more experienced and skilled staff, and the training of the apprentice is at least part-funded. Pair that with a minimum wage of £3.90p/h and you’ve got a cost-effective and enthusiastic new start.
Studies have also shown that hiring an apprentice can increase your workforce productivity; over 80% of businesses that took on an apprentice reported higher than normal efficiency. Apprentices bring with them fresh perspectives and new ideas, which can be a breath of fresh air to the workplace.
And it’s not just ideas they can bring to the table. Apprentices are usually keen to get stuck in; so get training them from day one to shape them into a perfect fit for your business.
Apprenticeships are tailored to specific job roles, and these tend to be the areas experiencing a skill’s shortage. The government states that skills shortages are one of the biggest threats to the UK economy; the boost in apprenticeships is to help combat that. Apprentices bring a range of skills and knowledge that can help plug these gaps, meaning your business will be future proof.
Get the best out of your apprentice
If you decide an apprentice is the way forward for your company, just how do you get the most out of them?
Apprentices are valuable members of the team; allowing you to nurture your own talent and shape the next generation of your workforce. The training apprentices get is completely up-to-date, so you know they’ll keep your business moving with the latest technologies.
You’ll firstly want to set goals and objective for your apprentice. This will allow you to monitor their progress and improvement, while they’ll have something to work towards.
Ensure they’re engaged in their role, get them involved with the team or a workplace mentor, and help them take pride in their work – it’ll empower them, and they’ll feel valued and respected.
Always have an open ear, and take the time to talk and listen to your apprentice. If you’re impressed with how they progress don’t be afraid to develop them further – studies show that employees taken on from apprenticeships are the most loyal in the workforce.
Taking on an apprentice is very similar to hiring any other member of staff. It is a type of employment contract, and apprentices will have all the same rights and benefits as other employees. You must provide them with on-the-job-training, they must be employed for a minimum of 30 hours per week, and they must be paid the apprentice minimum wage.
