What is the Apprenticeship Levy

If you’re an employer with a payroll bill over £3 million each year you’ll be paying an apprenticeship levy of 0.5% via the HMRC PAYE. This levy can only be spent on apprenticeship training and assessment. For more information, please take a look at our Apprenticeship Funding section.

How long do apprenticeships take to complete?

Our apprenticeship programmes range from and a minimum of 12 months up to 30 months, depending on the programme and level. The minimum duration of 12 months is based on an apprentice working at least 30 hours a week, including any off-the-job training they undertake. If the apprentice works fewer than 30 hours a week, or when a part-time working pattern is needed, you must agree with the training provider to extend the apprenticeship accordingly.

Do apprentices need a lot of support?

Apprentices may need additional support in the initial stages, especially if this is their first experience of employment but, this is likely to decrease as their skills and confidence grow. Where appropriate, supervision or mentoring can be offered by an existing member of staff wishing to gain experience as part of their development.

Financial support is available to help with the cost of supporting younger apprentices, care leavers and young adults up to 25 who have an education, health and care plan. We will be happy to discuss this with you as part of the introduction to TCP.

How do I advertise for an apprentice?

We will work with you throughout the recruitment process to ensure we understand the position(s) you are looking to fill and the candidate(s) you are aiming to attract. We will check eligibility and match candidate requirements to the job role. Shortlisted candidates will then be passed to you for an interview and to ensure they are the right fit for your business.

What are the next steps?

Whether you are looking to recruit new talent into your business or, up-skill some of your existing employees, we can support you through the process. Get in touch with the team today and start your apprenticeship journey with TCP.

What are Apprenticeships?

Apprenticeships are structured training programmes that combine on-the-job training with classroom learning. They provide individuals with valuable skills, knowledge, and experience in a specific job role while they earn a wage. Apprenticeships are a fantastic way for businesses to develop a skilled workforce tailored to their needs while offering individuals an alternative pathway to traditional education.

How Do Apprenticeships Work?

Apprenticeships are a blend of practical work experience and formal education. When an individual enrolls in an apprenticeship program, they enter into a formal agreement with an employer and a training provider. Here's a breakdown of how the process typically works:

1. Employment Contract: The apprentice will have a genuine job role and will be employed by the company. They will receive a salary for their work, just like any other employee.

2. On-the-Job Training: The majority of the apprentice's time is spent working with their employer, gaining hands-on experience and learning the specific skills required for their role.

3. Off-the-Job Training: Typically, 20% of an apprentice's time is dedicated to off-the-job training. This could be at a college, a training center, or even online. During this time, apprentices learn the theoretical knowledge that supports their practical experience.

4. Assessment: Throughout the apprenticeship, the apprentice will be assessed on both their practical work and their theoretical knowledge. This ensures they are competent and ready to qualify by the end of their program.

5. Qualification: Once the apprenticeship is completed, the apprentice will receive a nationally recognized qualification in their chosen field.

The beauty of apprenticeships is that they allow individuals to earn while they learn, gaining valuable work experience while also achieving formal qualifications. For employers, apprenticeships are a way to train new employees in the specific skills and knowledge needed for their business.

Who can do an Apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships are suitable for anybody aged 16 and above. For those who are School leavers, you cannot start your Apprentice until after the last Friday in June of the academic year in which you have your 16th birthday.

What type of Apprenticeships are on offer?

We offer Apprenticeships in a wide range of sectors; These include Digital, ICT, Business & Leadership. See our Courses section to see our full range of Apprenticeships. If there’s a qualification or apprenticeship we think you would benefit from, but we don’t offer it ourselves, we will advise you on the options and signpost you to providers that can help. Free impartial advice and guidance is all part of the service.

What qualifications do I need to enrol on an Apprenticeship?

This will depend on the industry and the requirements from the Employer. We encourage Employers to look beyond academic qualifications as some people may have a real desire to work and learn. In these situations we will offer Functional Skills alongside the qualification.

How does an Apprenticeship compare to a degree?

Apprenticeships start at level 2 and go up to degree level which means you can gain a fantastic qualification and lots of on-the-job experience but without a student loan or debt.

If I’ve already got a job can I start an Apprenticeship?

If you are currently working, you can become an Apprentice so long as your employer agrees to support you.

If I’ve got a university degree can I undertake an Apprenticeship?

Yes, you can do an Apprenticeship so long as what you are learning is different or enhances your current qualifications – whatever the level. We will review this with you are part of our application and enrolment process.