Apprenticeships
Employers benefit by developing talent aligned to their business needs, accessing government funding, and building a loyal, skilled workforce.
Explore this page and discover how as an employer apprenticeships can strengthen your team and support long-term growth.
Are you a learner looking for an apprenticeship? Click below.
What is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a structured training programme that combines on-the-job learning with classroom instruction. Apprenticeships offer individuals the opportunity to gain practical skills and knowledge in a specific trade or profession while earning a wage. The length of the programme varies, but it typically lasts between one and four years. Alongside on-the-job training, apprentices spend at least 20% of their working hours completing classroom-based learning with a college, university or training provider.
Hiring An Apprentice
Employing an apprentice is easier than you think. Click to learn more about financial support and help available from the government.
Growth and Skills Levy
Access funding, incentives, and flexible training options under the new Growth and Skills Levy.
The Apprenticeship Guide
A one-stop introduction to the world of apprenticeships.
Apprenticeship Funding Rules
Understand how recent reforms support workforce development and sustainable growth for businesses of all sizes.
Key Changes for 2025/26 Apprenticeships
- Growth and Skills Levy (from April 2025).
- Shorter Apprenticeships
- Off-The-Job Training
- Foundation Apprenticeships
- English and Maths Requirements
- Part-Time Apprenticieships
What do employers need to do?
- Review your apprenticeship programmes to align with new rules.
- Assess prior learning to optimise programme length and funding.
- Update training plans to reflect fixed OTJ hours and new durations.
- Engage with training providers to explore Foundation Apprenticeships and other flexible options.
- Use your Growth and Skills Levy funds strategically—consider broader training needs beyond apprenticeships.
- Stay compliant by submitting Employer Statements when needed and keeping accurate records
Key Information
Stengthen Your Workforce
Why should an employer hire an apprentice?
Click below to hear employer stories.
Understand The Growth and Skills Levy
Find free, up-to-date advice on how to access funding, incentives, and flexible training options under the new Growth and Skills Levy.
Find out more about Funding
Understand how recent reforms support workforce development and sustainable growth for businesses of all sizes.
Read the rules for main providers and employer-providers receiving funding for delivering apprenticeship training and on-programme assessment in England; and all employers of apprentices who are accessing funding for apprenticeships in England.
Employer Exchange Webinar 2026
View the discussion of the latest developments, announcements and upcoming policy changes in the world of apprenticeships and skills.
Discover what this all means for businesses, and how these changes might affect apprenticeship plans and workforce development opportunities.
Facilitated by Simon Ashworth,
Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Policy, AELP.
Apprenticeship Networks
Join the Apprenticeship Ambassador Network
What is the Apprenticeship Ambassador Network?
If you are an employer with an Apprenticeship programme you can join the Apprenticeship Ambassador Network, to connect with experienced apprenticeship employers to network, share knowledge and best practice and attend events including those at schools and colleges. The AAN’s remit is to inspire, excite, and galvanise greater numbers of employers and individuals to connect with apprenticeships.
Join the Apprenticeship Diversity Champions Network
The Apprenticeship Diversity Champions Network (ADCN) is a group of employers who champion diversity and inclusion in apprenticeships. They showcase the positive impact of apprenticeships for people and organisations from underrepresented groups. Hiring apprentices allows you to offer opportunities to those from underrepresented groups, promoting inclusivity and bringing a variety of perspectives to your team. Discover how ADCN actively supports and promotes diversity in apprenticeships.