In this article we explore what modern apprenticeships looks like and the benefits of such training both for individuals and employers.
For help implementing apprenticeships in your business, Get in Touch with the Human Resources specialists at Exceed Outsourcing.
What Is An Apprenticeship?
- Modern apprenticeships allow individual ‘apprentices’ to access on-the-job training in almost any industry whilst studying for a formal qualification in the relevant field.
- The course is split between 80% of time undertaking normal work tasks and 20% developing skills in their chosen subject, either in the workplace, at a training centre, or via an online learning platform.
- Apprenticeships aren’t just available to new starters. They can also be offered to existing staff, in order to develop their skills and give them additional career development opportunities.
- Apprenticeships are available at varying levels, ranging from intermediate to degree standard.
- As the level of an apprenticeship increases, additional qualifications are required to be accepted onto the course.
| Apprenticeship Level | Equivalent Educational Level | Entry Requirement |
| Level 2
(Intermediate) |
GCSE | Minimum age 16, with an interest in the subject |
| Level 3
(Advanced) |
A Level | Employers usually seek 3 GSCEs (including English and Maths) |
| Level 4
(Higher) |
Foundation Degree | GCSEs and Level 3 qualifications | Experience in a relevant subject is likely to be desired |
| Level 5
(Higher) |
Bachelor’s Degree | Same as level 4, with higher minimum grades and previous experience required |
| Level 6
(Degree) |
Bachelor’s Degree | Same as level 5, with higher minimum grades |
| Level 7
(Degree) |
Master’s Degree | A bachelor’s degree or equivalent level 4 qualifications, with a number of years’ experience |
How Apprenticeships Are Funded
- In the UK, apprenticeship courses are funded by the Apprenticeship Levy, which is paid by all companies with a payroll bill of more than £3 million, regardless of whether any of their employees are apprentices or not.
- Companies that contribute to the apprenticeship levy don’t need to pay anything extra for apprenticeship training for their employees.
- Non-levy paying employers can also offer apprenticeships too, contributing just 5% towards the cost of the course. The remaining 95% is paid out of the apprenticeship levy pot.
How Much Are Apprentices Paid?
- The UK Government does not fund apprentices’ wages. It’s an employer’s responsibility to pay it’s workers, including apprentices.
- The rate of pay which an apprentice receives is at the discretion of their employer, but the minimum wage for apprentices may be lower than the normal rate:
| Age | During First Year of Apprenticeship | After First Year of Apprenticeship |
| Under 19 | £6.40 | £6.40 |
| 19-20 | £6.40 | £8.60 |
| 21+ | £6.40 | £11.44 |
Rates for April 2024 – March 2025, which will increase on 1st April 2025.
Source: www.gov.uk/national-minimum-wage-rates
- To secure the best candidates available, most employers pay more than the minimum wage for their apprentices.
- As with recruiting all new employees, the rate paid will depend on their experience, the skills required, and the type of work the apprentice is expected to complete.
- Companies that takes on apprentices usually do so with the aim of them becoming permanent staff members on the completion of their course.
- Nevertheless, some companies prefer not to offer apprentices a position after their course ends in order to keep employing/paying further apprentices below the normal minimum wage.
Accredited Training Providers
- In order for apprenticeship schemes to be funded in the UK, employers must choose a training provider that’s accredited by the government.
- An excel spreadsheet listing their register of accredited training providers can be downloaded from on the UK Government Website.
- Each apprenticeship training provider tailors the apprentice’s learning to focus on a specific vocation, and it is the employer that decides what skills are needed in their team.
Exceed’s Experience With Apprenticeships
We believe in the opportunities that apprenticeships offer, and our in-house employees have undertaken various apprenticeships in Marketing, Payroll, Sales and HR.
Jenny Nicholson completed a level 3 apprenticeship in HR Support. She said:
“Apprenticeships give you the chance to develop new skills. The apprenticeship course I completed allowed me to begin the transition into a role I had never worked in before, whilst still being able to do my day-to-day job.”
Timea Hirsch said:
“I wanted to learn something new, and to study a subject that complements my maths skills and previous experience in the finance sector. My apprenticeship will consolidate my knowledge and enhance my career.”
Make the Most of Apprenticeships – Outsource to Exceed!
Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to enable individuals to access new industries and progress their careers, whilst benefiting employers greatly too.
Apprentices offer a fresh perspective to the company outlook, and employers are able to increase the diversity of skills within their workforce, for minimal cost.
For support and advice in relation to implementing apprenticeships in your business, Get in Touch with the Human Resources specialists at Exceed Outsourcing.
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