The Business Exchange Bath & Somerset Issue 4: Summer 2017 | Page 15

Deliver quality apprenticeships

Eight things you need to cover as an employer taking on an apprentice .
The government is changing the way apprenticeships are funded and delivered , and employers are facing new costs now that the apprenticeship levy has come into force . If you ’ re taking on a new apprentice , you ’ ll need to follow the government ’ s funding and performance management rules . To help you stay up to date , we ’ ve put together a quick guide with some important tips .
Bath College ’ s quick guide to apprenticeships
1 . You need a specific contract of employment
This contract should be different to a standard contract and mention the type of apprenticeship offered , including start and end dates .
2 . Apprentices must be employed until they finish their course
Apprenticeship contracts have a time limit , but sometimes apprentices are unable to complete their studies within this time . Employers should continue to support their apprentice until they complete their training .
3 . Apprenticeships need a job role to move into
Apprentices are a valuable asset for companies for many years to come . However , if you ’ re not able to provide a permanent job role , you should help your apprentice with their search for alternative employment .
4 . Allow 20 percent of working time for training
Apprentices need 20 per cent of their working time away from their desk to learn and train on the job . This can include attending college , attending in-work training and study time .
5 . Give an opportunity for English and maths qualifications
Apprentices should have the opportunity to study for GCSE maths and English qualifications if they haven ’ t achieved a C grade .
6 . Employers choose the end point assessment
You have the final say on the assessments your apprentice needs to pass in order to achieve their qualification . This can be developed in connection with your chosen training provider .
7 . You can train existing employees as apprentices
If you currently run training programmes for your staff , you could convert these into apprenticeship programmes in order to use part of your apprenticeship levy .
8 . Employers need to sign a contract with their training provider
You can choose your training provider , but you ’ ll need to sign a contract with them . For apprentices aged 15 to 17 , you ’ ll also need a signature from their parent or guardian . Bath College is a registered training provider and our apprenticeship team is available to offer expert advice .
At Bath College , we work with businesses to help them develop apprenticeship programmes in line with their training needs . Our priority is to help your company grow and make sure you maximise the return on your investment .
To find out more about how our team could help your business visit : www . bathcollege . ac . uk
or email :
apprenticeships @ bathcollege . ac . uk
THE BUSINESS EXCHANGE 2017 15