Degree apprenticeships

Apprenticeships - Information for employers

Apprentices bring unique skills and a fresh approach that could benefit your business. Support the training of your workers and play a central role in designing and delivering apprenticeship courses.

Higher and degree apprenticeships allow workers to pursue qualifications while they are employed. They are a great method of attracting, motivating and retaining talent within your organisation.

What to expect

Apprenticeships are work-based qualifications. This means a proportion of the training and assessment takes place in the workplace.

However, students must attend study days at university. This takes place through day release or training blocks throughout the year. Apprentices must also be allowed additional study time during normal working hours as required for the course.

Standards for these courses are set and maintained by employer groups known as 'trailblazers'. These involve a range of employers, regulatory bodies, supply chains and small businesses. Every group is reviewed to ensure they reflect the sector.

How apprenticeships are funded

The Apprenticeship Levy is used to fund apprenticeship training. Every employer with annual labour costs of over £3 million contributes towards this fund.

Even if your organisation does not contribute to the levy, you still receive assistance to take on higher and degree apprentices. The government pays 95% of the cost of the training and the employer's contribution is just 5%. You may be able to get a levy transfer for the full cost from a levy-paying organisation.

Incentives are provided to support small businesses with fewer than 50 staff, for apprentices aged 16-18, and for successful completion.

What are the benefits?

  • You'll play a central role in design and delivery

Apprentices can meet the needs specific to your organisation. By learning at work, apprentices can develop the knowledge and skills demanded by specific roles while studying related theory.

  • Attract new talent and retain existing talent

Apprenticeships help businesses to attract and retain employees with potential, expanding workplace diversity and benefiting the local community and wider economy.

  • Improve competitiveness and productivity

Fill your skills gaps by tailoring the learning to your workplace. Apprentices can also bring knowledge of latest techniques and technology, keeping your methods up-to-date and increasing productivity.

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