Explore apprenticeships
Apprenticeships can help you recruit someone new or develop an existing employee through a combination of paid work and structured training.
You do not need to understand every apprenticeship option before you begin. Use this page to work through the main decisions, from identifying the role and choosing training to understanding funding and levy support.
Choose the type of help you need below. If you are unsure where to start, please contact us.
Apprenticeships: where to start
Start with the job or skills need in your business. Consider the work the apprentice will do, the skills they need to develop and who will support them in the workplace.
Your next steps are likely to include:
- decide whether you want to recruit a new employee or develop someone already in your team;
- identify the apprenticeship training that matches the role;
- choose a suitable training provider;
- understand the funding or levy arrangements that apply;
- allow time for workplace learning and ongoing support.
Apprenticeships for new and existing employees
Recruit a new apprentice
An apprenticeship can provide a structured route for recruiting someone into your business while they work towards the knowledge and skills required for the role.
Develop an existing employee
Apprenticeships can also be considered for existing employees who are moving into a new role, taking on wider responsibilities or developing new occupational skills.
Begin with the employee’s role and the skills the business needs, then check which apprenticeship training may be suitable.
Choose an apprenticeship and find a training provider
The apprenticeship and training provider need to be suitable for the role, the employee and your business.
When comparing options, consider:
- the knowledge and skills covered;
- the apprenticeship level;
- how training will be delivered;
- the support available to the employer and apprentice;
- the workplace time and supervision required;
- the expected start arrangements.
Apprenticeship funding
The funding arrangements will depend on your organisation and the apprenticeship. Check the current official guidance before making a decision or agreeing costs with a provider.
Use or share your levy
Support for levy-paying employers
If your organisation pays the apprenticeship levy, you may be able to use available funds for apprenticeship training. The relevant apprenticeship service guidance should remain the source for current account and funding rules.
Request transferred funding
Businesses that do not have sufficient apprenticeship funds may be able to explore transferred funding from a levy-paying employer. Availability and eligibility should be confirmed through the current service or an adviser.
Share levy funds
Levy-paying employers that want to support apprenticeships in other businesses can ask about sharing available funds and the local matching process.
