FAQs
More Information
How much is the minimum wage?
You can find the current rates for the national minimum wage for an apprentice here.
The rates change every April.
How Long Is An Apprenticeship?
The duration of apprenticeship training must be more than 12 months, and for higher-level apprenticeships for occupations requiring high-level specialist skills, up to 4 years.
What is end-point assessment (EPA)?
The end-point assessment is designed to enable apprentices to demonstrate that they are fully conversant in the skills, knowledge and behaviours expected of individuals at the apprenticeship level.
It is designed to provide assessors with a holistic view of the apprentice and to allow them to assess to what extent the apprentice meets or exceeds the apprenticeship standard.
How much 'off-the-job' training will the apprentice receive?
The apprentice will spend at least 20% of their time on 'off-the-job' training.
Read more about 'Off-the-Job' here
What happens if I cannot complete the apprenticeship on-the-job training?
Your training to date will be considerably appreciated, and we can help find an alternative apprenticeship with another employer.
How will I organise 'Off-the-Job' training?
We can advise you on the 'Off-the-Job' (OTJ) training element, and we will work with you to explain the delivery of training we provide and the elements which you as the employer can include.
For funding purposes, full-time apprentices must receive an average minimum of 6 hours per week of off-the-job training (or a pro-rata equivalent for part-time employees).
English and maths (Functional Skills) require additional dedicated time over and above the off-the-job training minimum.
Get more information from MITSkills Employer Handbook by downloading it below:
What about English & Maths?
Apprentices must meet a minimum standard in both English and Maths, up to Level 2. If your apprentice does not have adequate qualifications, they may need to do an English or Maths course.
We will help you identify which of your apprentices require English and Maths and we will provide the training. You won't pay for English and Maths training.
How many hours can an apprentice work?
All apprentices have employed status, which means that they come under the employer's terms and conditions, and work the number of hours detailed in their contract of employment, issued within 16 weeks of the apprentice’s start date.
Apprentices should work for a minimum of 30 hours a week and a maximum of 40 hours per week.
What if things don't work out?
As a training provider, part of our responsibility is to visit the employer and the apprentice regularly. On these visits, we sought feedback from the apprentice's manager, allowing for opportunities to discuss any problems that may arise.
We have vast experience of assisting in these matters and take pride in our ability to provide a range of extra support if required.
How do I apply for the Bursary Fund?
The 16-19 Bursary Fund provides financial help for young people aged 16 to 19 who face barriers to staying in education.
It is available to all 16 and 19-year olds studying in schools, academies, sixth-form colleges, further education (FE) colleges, specialist independent providers, local authorities and training providers in England.
There are two types of bursary available:
- Bursaries of £1,200 a year for the most vulnerable young people; and
- Discretionary bursaries based on individual need, such as help with the costs of travel, equipment or meals.
To apply for a bursary, please download and complete the application form, and return it to MITSkills.
The Bursary Fund Application Form
Can employers work with schools to attract an apprentice?
Schools generally welcome interest from local employers.
There are a variety of approaches you could take, including visiting the school to tell them about your business; having a stand at open days; offering work experience and supporting school projects.
It will help young people appreciate what you do and will improve the understanding of job opportunities that are available now and in the future.
Do you have a course guide?
Yes. You can view and download our Course Guide here - MITSkills Online Brochure