An apprenticeship is a genuine job with an accompanying assessment and skills development programme. It is a way for individuals 16+ to earn while they learn, gaining valuable skills and knowledge in a specific job role. The apprentice gains this through a wide mix of learning in the workplace, formal off-the-job training and the opportunity to practise new skills in a real work environment. To complete the apprenticeship learning the apprentice completes an end point assessment at the end of the program. 

Off-the-job training is a statutory requirement for an English apprenticeship. It is training which is received by the apprentice, during the apprentice’s normal working hours, for the purpose of achieving the knowledge, skills and behaviours of the approved apprenticeship referenced in the apprenticeship agreement. By normal working hours we mean paid hours excluding overtime. It is not on-the-job training which is training received by the apprentice for the sole purpose of enabling the apprentice to perform the work for which they have been employed. By this we mean training that does not specifically link to the knowledge, skills and behaviours set out in the apprenticeship.

The apprentice must have a normal working contract with the employer for a minimum of 30 hours per week.

Businesses that offer apprenticeships view them as beneficial to their long-term success. Hiring an apprentice is a productive and effective way for any business to grow talent and develop a motivated, skilled and qualified workforce. 

In order to support employers to recruit through an apprenticeship there are a number of Government cash incentives currently available that are highlighted in our benefits of hiring an apprentice section.

The STC Group currently deliver apprenticeship qualifications from L2 and L5. Please complete the form below and we will contact you to discuss available pathways.

What levels are there?

All apprenticeships include elements of on the job and off the job training, leading to industry recognised standards or qualifications. Some apprenticeships also require an assessment at the end of the programme to assess the apprentice`s ability and competence in their job role. Qualifications start at L2 with a duration of 12 months and upwards.

Name Level Equivalent educational level

Intermediate 2 – 5 GCSE passes at grade A*– C or 9 – 4

Advanced 3 – 2 A level passes/Level 3 Diploma/

Higher 4, 5, 6 and 7 – Foundation degree and above / Degree 6 and 7 Bachelor’s or master’s degree.

You can earn the national minimum wage (NMW) for apprentices. The apprentice NMW applies to apprentices aged under 19 or aged 19 or over and in the first year of their apprenticeship.

Apprentices aged 25 and over, and not in the first year of their apprenticeship, will be entitled to the National Minimum Wage.