Employer FAQ’s
How will my company benefit?
There are many benefits to you as an employer, the main one is that you will develop competent motivated and committed employees. This in turn can only improve the levels of customer service delivered by your employees to your customers. What have you got to lose?
What is an Apprenticeship?
An Apprenticeship is a work-based training programme, which lets your employee learn and earn in a real job, to achieve a nationally recognised qualification at the end of it. As well as teaching practical skills and the underpinning knowledge to go with those skills, it also develops an understanding of the law, which applies to employers and employees.
Who is eligible?
To get full government funding for an employee to work towards an Apprenticeship, the employee must:
- be working more than 15 hours per week
- have been living in the European Union for the past 3 years
- have an NI number
- not a graduate or taking part in full-time education
How much will it cost?
If the above criteria are met, the government funds the majority of the training cost, however it is government policy that employers should contribute, particularly in the case of the 19+ age group. The amount contributed will depend on a number of factors. Please contact us for further details.
What is Train to Gain?
Train to Gain is also a Workbased training programme but aimed at the 25+ age group. The programme allows the learner to work towards a level 2 or level 3 NVQ (subject to their job role responsibilities). Learners who already hold an NVQ at level 2 or above, or its equivalent, are not eligible for the programme. A member of our staff will check eligibility once the learner has expressed an interest of undertaking the programme.
What are my responsibilities as an employer?
You will have to ensure that all legal requirements in terms of Health and Safety, Equal Opportunities and working hours are met.
Be available for feedback sessions after assessments and also be available for at least 30 minutes to complete a review every 12 weeks.
How long does it take?
There is no set time to complete an Apprenticeship or an NVQ as they vary widely in content and size. The length of time taken will depend on the ability of the individual apprentice and the employer’s requirements. An Apprenticeship will usually take anything from 9 to 24 months. NVQ’s might take less, but some Apprenticeships can take longer, so a large degree of commitment on your part is necessary to see it through.
How often does the assessor visit?
The assessor will visit the learner once a month and assessments last for 2 hours.
You will need to sign an agreement to say that you agree that the learner can be released from their duties during these assessments.
Who pays the charges?
This depends on you as the employer. We would suggest that you pay and if your employee leaves, you will claim the monies back from them, however this is ultimately your decision.
Who pays the £50 charge for a missed assessment?
This also depends on you as the employer. We would suggest that you inform your employee that this will be deducted from their salary.
