It is important that employers understand the full range of responsibilities involved in employing an apprentice. Below is an outline of what it means to employ an apprentice with respect to funding criteria and contractual requirements.
Employers must provide the apprentice with a suitable role that allows them to develop the knowledge, skills, and behaviours as set out in the apprenticeship standard. The role must enable the apprentice to gain experience in all necessary aspects of work required for their apprenticeship. Along with this, an employer must provide suitable supervision and mentoring in the workplace to support the apprentice's development relevant to the occupational standard.
The apprentice's employment contract must be long enough to cover the full duration of the programme including the Apprenticeship Assessment. Should an apprenticeship need to be extended for any reason, the contract must also cover the extension period. In addition, employers are required to pay the apprentice a legal wage for all activity on the apprenticeship, including attending formal lectures and Apprenticeship Assessment.
Furthermore, an Apprenticeship Agreement must be agreed upon for each learner. This statement needs to be signed by the learner, the provider, and the employer. It forms the contract between all three parties and enables the apprenticeship to begin.
Please note: An apprentice cannot be asked to contribute to the cost of their apprenticeship. This includes not reclaiming funds for any apprentices that leave early or move to another employer.
