Get in touch with our Apprenticeship Team to talk through the options and ensure that you and your staff are accessing great opportunities!
Email: apprenticeship@bridgend.ac.uk or Tel: 01656 763 233 / 763 238
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What is an apprenticeship and what does it involve?
An apprenticeship combines a job with training. They can be used for anyone, regardless of their experience or age, eg a school leaver or existing member of staff.
Apprenticeships enable individuals to carry out a structured training programme which includes professional qualification(s) and on the job training. They equip individuals with the relevant skills, knowledge and behaviours required to carry out a specific job role.
What are the benefits of running apprenticeships?
Apprenticeships are a tried and tested way to recruit new staff. They provide an opportunity to develop new talent and upskill existing talent. Employers who recruit apprenticeships often notice a reduction in staff turnover, and an increase in employee loyalty and satisfaction.
Additionally, they can be a cheaper way to recruit staff and can provide the apprentice with the opportunity to progress their skills and develop in their role.
What level of apprenticeships are there?
Apprenticeships programmes span from level 2 –7. Levels 6 and 7 are intended to be equivalent to a Bachelor’s and a Master’s Degree.
What is the difference between a ‘standard’ and a ‘framework’?
Apprenticeship standards are much more rigorous than the old frameworks and are designed by industry employers. The key difference between the two is that apprenticeship standards require apprenticeships to last for a minimum of 12 months and include an end-point assessment. The new standards ensure apprenticeship programmes are both challenging and fit for purpose.
When will apprenticeship frameworks be phased out?
The old frameworks are currently being phased out and replaced with new standards. The government expects the standards system to completely replace the frameworks system by 2020.
How long do apprenticeships last?
The duration of an apprenticeship varies depending on the apprenticeship that you choose, and the apprentice you employ. The minimum duration of an apprenticeship is 12 months. Some higher-level or degree-level apprenticeships can run for up to 48 months.
Is an apprenticeship a real job?
Yes, apprentices must be employed in a real job. They are contracted into a role by the employer and required to work a minimum of 30 hours per week.
The apprenticeship contract must stipulate the following: the duration of the apprenticeship, the training provided, the working conditions and the qualifications the apprentice will be working towards. Each apprenticeship must include a minimum of 20% time ‘off the job’ training.
Can a graduate participate in an apprenticeship?
Yes. From April 2017, funding is available to all graduates, regardless of their experience or age. The apprenticeship that they are using must be significantly different to the qualifications they already hold so that new skills are learned.
Can an existing member of staff be offered an apprenticeship?
Yes, if the apprenticeship is relevant to their job role, teaches them something new and provides career progression. Funding is only available for apprenticeships which are relevant to the individual’s job role.
The apprentice must be able to demonstrate the required skills, knowledge and behaviour specified in the apprenticeship.
Can a part-time member of staff participate in an apprenticeship?
Yes, there are concessions available to allow part-time staff to participate in an apprenticeship. However, it will take a part-time apprentice substantially longer to complete the apprenticeship.
What happens if an apprentice goes on maternity, paternity or long term sick leave?
If an apprentice goes on maternity, paternity or long term sick leave during an apprenticeship, the apprenticeship can be paused and will continue when the apprentice returns to work.
How much should apprentices get paid?
All apprentices get paid a salary and this will differ depending on the job role. The employer must comply with the national minimum wage legislation (the current apprenticeship minimum wage is £3.30 an hour).
Apprentices over 19 must be paid the minimum wage for their age category. Please note, higher-level apprenticeships are subject to the national minimum wage, not the apprenticeship minimum wage. Apprentices must be offered the same conditions as other employees working on similar grades or in similar roles, including paid holidays, sick pay and any benefits you offer e.g. childcare voucher schemes, coaching or mentoring etc.
Does the levy need to be spent on recognised qualifications?
Yes; the apprenticeship levy can only be used on qualifications specified within the apprenticeship standard. Most apprenticeship standards will have professional qualifications embedded.
Does the term ‘apprentice’ need to be used in the apprentice’s job title?
No; job titles are set by each employer, therefore you will not need to include ‘apprentice’ in the job title.
How much does apprenticeship training cost?
There are 15 funding bands which apprenticeship standards are allocated to. The bands range from £1,500 to £27,000 per apprenticeship depending on the level and apprenticeship type. All existing standards will be placed within one of these bands, and it will be up to the employer to negotiate costs with training providers.
Employer testimonials
We have had a relationship with Bridgend College for the best part of a decade, we try and take on multiple apprentices each year, in various fields. We feel it is an important part of our Business Development and at the moment have 6 full time apprentices. We have always received excellent support and dedication, often through challenging periods from Bridgend College, and we plan to continue this development in the coming years.
Tata Steel has sourced a range of Academic, Vocational & industry specific training from Bridgend College for several decades and we have always been satisfied with the service and training provided. The Team building & Problem Solving Training for our 105 new Apprentices is delivered professionally but in a fun, challenging and supportive way.
