Apprenticeship programme myths

Written on 27th, October 2022

Over recent years, apprenticeships have come a long way.  They provide the perfect gateway for individuals looking to kickstart their dream careers. However, there are still many misconceptions surrounding apprenticeships and PTS are here to help dispel them. 

“Apprenticeships are only entry level – they are for low skilled people”

FACT: Apprenticeships are available from Level 2 (GCSE equivalent) right through to Levels 6 and 7 (equivalent to a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree).  Some apprenticeships may also offer additional professional qualifications – check out the Institute for Apprenticeships website which is constantly udpated as new standards come online.   

“Apprenticeships are only for young people (16-18)”. 

FACT: Apprenticeships are available to people of all ages; anyone over the age of 16 living in England can apply.  There are different entry requirements depending on the industry, job role and apprenticeship level.

“Apprenticeships cannot be used for existing staff”

FACT: Apprenticeships can be used to upskill and/or retrain employees of any age, including older workers or existing staff, as long as the apprenticeship is giving them new skills to enable them to achieve competence in their chosen occupation.

Apprenticeships don’t lead to permanent employment. 

Although completing an apprenticeship doesn’t guarantee permanent employment, many employers do offer apprentices full-time contracts after completing their training!   If an apprentice isn’t successful in securing full-time employment, there is no need to worry!   Completing an apprenticeship provides individuals with nationally recognised qualifications, making them more employable when looking for future job roles.  

Recruiting an apprentice is costly and time-consuming.  

Under the apprenticeship funding rules, businesses with an annual pay bill in excess of £3 million must use their levy funds to pay for apprenticeship training.   However, non-levy employers can share the cost of apprenticeship training with the government. Those employers are required to contribute 5% towards the cost, whilst the government pays the remaining 95%. 

Regarding the cost of recruitment, if you are an employer who wishes to recruit an apprentice through Professional Training Solutions, our service is FREE! Find out more.

20% off-the-job training is inflexible: it has to involve 1 day off a week, spent in college.   

FACT: Off-the-job training does not have to involve 1 day a week spent in college.  It can be delivered in a way and place that suits you and the provider, allowing the apprentice to learn new knowledge, skills and behaviours required.  

We hope this blog has busted the myths surrounding apprenticeships.

• If you are an employer looking to recruit an apprenticeship, contact us today!  
• If you are an individual looking to complete an apprenticeship, check out our latest vacancies!