In April 2017 the government made changes around how apprenticeships are funded and delivered.
Apprenticeship frameworks
The various knowledge and skills-based qualifications that make up an apprenticeship are referred to as a 'framework'. Frameworks are slowly being replaced by new employer-led 'standards' which will be fully in place by 2020.
Search for frameworks, standards and training providers (GOV.UK).
Apprenticeships are open to everyone
Anyone can do an apprenticeship, whether they are new or existing members of staff at any age.
Apprenticeships are available across hundreds of job roles, from 'entry level' business admin or digital marketing to high level finance or degree level management.
Apprenticeship funding bands
Each framework and standard is placed against an apprenticeship funding band; for example:
- an intermediate business admin apprenticeship costs £2,000
- a degree-level chartered management apprenticeship costs £27,000
How apprenticeship training is paid for
Who pays for apprenticeship training is also changing.
If you have an annual pay-bill of:
- less than £3m, the government covers 90% of training costs; you cover 10%
- less than £3m and have less than 50 members of staff, the government covers all apprenticeship training costs if the apprentice is aged between 16 and 18 on the first day of their apprenticeship (or up to 24 for learners with learning difficulties/disabilities or is a care leaver)
- over £3m, you will be a levy payer, where 0.5% of your annual pay bill is automatically placed into your online Apprenticeship Levy pot on a monthly basis by HMRC, which is topped up by 10% from the government. You then access using the Digital Apprenticeship Service to pay for your apprenticeship training
Any business which hires an apprentice between the ages of 16 and 18 (or up to 24 for those with learning difficulties/disabilities or those in care/a care leaver) will receive a £1,000 grant from the government.
The benefits of hiring an apprentice
Watch our video of York employers talking about the benefits of hiring an apprentice:
You can also read through our case studies which give an employer's perspective on employing an apprentice.
York Apprenticeship Hub
Our Apprenticeship Hub offers a free service designed to support local businesses with the apprenticeship reforms; we can also put you in touch with other support services, depending on your needs. Contact the Apprenticeship Hub if you are considering hiring an apprentice, or would like more information.