What is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a real job that enables individuals to earn while they learn, gaining valuable knowledge, skills and behaviours tailored to a specific job role.
As an employer, hiring an apprentice allows you to invest in the future by bringing in talent that fits your business needs. Apprentices, like any other employees, have a contract with you.
Key points:
- Age: apprentices can start from age 16 (or 15 if their 16th birthday is between the last Friday of June and 31 August), with no upper age limit
- Wages: you must pay apprentices at least the National Minimum Wage. Learn more about pay and conditions for apprentices
- Existing Employees: existing employees can also become apprentices to enhance their skills
- Training Duration: an apprenticeship must include on-the-job and off-the-job training that lasts at least 12 months
- Time Allocation: apprentices typically spend 80% of their time on the job, learning and gaining experience, and 20% off-the-job training, which may be at the workplace, a college, or with a training provider
Apprenticeships in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
Each devolved nation has its own apprenticeship programmes, eligibility criteria, and funding rules. It's important to note that the apprenticeship standards used in England may differ from the frameworks used in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Learn about apprenticeships in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.