Apprenticeships
An apprenticeship offers the opportunity of a job alongside training (otherwise known as an apprenticeship standard).
You can start an apprenticeship any time after you have finished Year 11 and there is no upper age limit.
- Apprentices can be new or current employees.
- You can access government funding to cover some of the cost of training for an apprenticeship if you’re in England.
- Employers must pay the apprentice at least the minimum wage. The apprentice will have the same employment rights and responsibilities as any other employee in the organisation. In most cases, will work at least 30 hours a week.
Apprentices must:
- work with experienced staff
- learn job-specific skills
- be able to study during their working week (for example, at a college or training organisation)
Support for Employers
Hire an Apprentice
Apprenticeships are an exciting option for both apprentice and employer.
You can employ apprentices at different levels, from school leavers and university graduates to people who want to further their careers or change career direction completely.
You can hire someone new or upskill an existing employee.
As an employer, you can get funding from the government to help pay for apprenticeship training.
Support for Students & Parents
Become an Apprentice
If you’re a parent, guardian, or carer, you can help inspire the apprentices of tomorrow.
Apprenticeships are designed by employers so the training reflects the skills, knowledge, and behaviours an apprentice will need for a particular occupation.
Apprenticeship training is of a high standard and only training providers who are on the register of apprenticeship training providers can deliver the training.
Working as an apprentice means they earn as they learn. An apprentice works in a real job and spends 20% of their working hours training. So, they gain the skills needed for their chosen occupation.
Support from KATO
KATO are here to support you if you are thinking of becoming an apprentice or employing an apprentice for the first time or the hundredth time. A range of guidance is available which we have included direct links to support you. We are happy to support you further with a conversation or introduce you to providers that can help with your next steps.
Resources / Links
Click the links below for more detail.
For Apprentices
We have been a member of KATO for over 15 years and being part of this wonderful professional network has enabled us to work closely with other Training Organisations and get insights into the latest information about training and funding.
Two years ago, I wouldn’t have been able to do plastering, plumbing, bits of electrics, carpentry etc. I’m so happy I went down this route of training. My Apprenticeship has given me not only those skills but the confidence in what I’m doing.
I find KATO so supportive for my conversations with employers who are looking at taking on apprentices and sourcing a training provider.
I have worked with KATO for many years; the support given to the company I worked for then was instrumental in promoting the benefits of apprenticeships to Kent residents and employers.
Become a Member
Are you a provider of skills & training and want to make valuable connections, raise your profile, and access relevant information? If so, join now.
Apprenticeships
Are you an employer, a parent or an individual interested in apprenticeships?
Find out more here.