Apprenticeships: Your questions answered
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How old do I have to be?

If you are aged 16 or over and living in England, you can start an apprenticeship. Depending on your existing skills and qualifications, you can undertake an Intermediate Level Apprenticeship, an Advanced Level Apprenticeship or a Higher Level Apprenticeship.

What are the benefits for my business?

Apprenticeships are a cost effective way to add new talent to your business. Skills shortages are still one of the biggest threats to the UK economy and even in difficult financial times, apprenticeships enable you to grow your business, giving you a competitive advantage to help you exploit new business opportunities. The investment you make in an apprentice is repaid many times over, with a survey by Populus in 2009 finding 81% of companies reporting better productivity after hiring an apprentice. The survey also found that 92% of companies employing an apprentice found it led to more motivated staff and increased job satisfaction.

Is there a cost involved?

Like all employees, apprentices are paid a wage. However, the Skills Funding Agency will match the employer’s commitment to hiring an apprentice by covering the training costs in full (for 16 to 18 year olds) or in part (up to 50% for those aged 19 to 24). A contribution will also be made towards training for those aged 25+.

Is there a financial incentive for SMEs?

Yes. From April 2012, organisations with fewer than 50 employees who take on their first apprentice aged 16 to 24 may receive a £1,500 grant, payable in two parts. Please call us for further details of eligibility, which will be available soon.

Can an existing employee undertake an apprenticeship?

Yes, if you have an existing staff member who would benefit from further training, contact us to find out more.

How long do apprenticeships last?

The duration of an apprenticeship depends on several factors including the level undertaken and the apprentice’s existing skills and qualifications, however the majority take between one and four years to complete.

How are the frameworks developed?

The qualifications within each ‘framework’ are developed by Sector Skills Councils who work with employers within their industry to ensure the qualifications are both relevant and up-to-date. If there doesn’t seem to be an apprenticeship that fits your business, please check with us to see whether one can be developed.

Is there a maximum number of apprentices I can employ?

No, you can take on as many apprentices as your organisation needs.

Is there an upper age limit?

There is no upper age limit for apprentices, however funding towards the cost of training your apprentice will differ, as above, depending on their age.

How much time will my apprentice spend at college?

All apprenticeships vary, however an apprentice would usually spend one day or evening a week in college and the rest of the time would be spent in the workplace.

How can I find the right candidate?

Central Sussex College’s Job Shop can advertise your vacancy free of charge both locally and nationally, using the National Apprenticeship Service website. The Job Shop differs from recruitment agencies in that it has a pool of work-ready former students, some of whom are part trained in your industry, who could become your workforce of the future.

   How can I find out more?

   Call 0845 155 0043 (press 4) or visit:
                                            www.centralsussex.ac.uk/apprenticeships