An apprenticeship is a skills-based qualification completed in a working environment. Apprentices are classed as being employed by the relevant business and are expected to complete a portfolio of work whilst carrying out their duties as an employee.

An apprenticeship qualification does not have to be completed by a new employee, these qualifications can also be completed by existing staff members. An apprenticeship can lead to as high as a level 6+ nationally recognised qualification, the equivalent of a Degree.

If you would like to make the most of the grant funding available for apprenticeships, you will need to employ a new member of staff and place them on an apprenticeship program. Depending on the type of program and your location within the UK, you will receive between £3,000 and £5,000 per apprentice that you employ.

Apprenticeship programs normally do not cost anything to the employer and you can do an apprenticeship in almost any vocational subject.

An apprenticeship typically lasts between 12 -24 months.