Information for Employers

• National Apprenticeship Week
• Guidance for employers
• Further information

National apprenticeship week is a government initiative that takes place every March. During the week there is a strong focus on celebrating the positive impact apprenticeships have on individuals, businesses and the economy.

To find out more about apprenticeships, see the apprenticeship pages on the GOV.UK website (external link).

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Guidance for employers

What are the benefits of hiring an apprentice?
Apprenticeships can help all types of businesses across a wide range of sectors harness fresh new talent. They can help equip your workforce with the practical skills and qualifications that your organisation needs now and in the future. They are undeniably a great way for people to enter the workforce, offering them the chance to develop vital skills which will help them throughout their career, as well as providing them with a paying job at a time when opportunities can be scarce.

What is a training provider?
A training provider is an organisation that will arrange and deliver the accredited training that underpins the apprenticeship. There are a number of Apprenticeship training providers who operate in Haringey including the College of Haringey, Enfield & North East London.

Will the government subsidise the apprentice’s training?
Yes, and the level of subsidy will depend on the age of the apprentice. Your training provider will be able to advise about the exact level of subsidy available.

Will I receive government funding for the apprentice’s wages?
The employer will be responsible for the apprentice’s salary. Employers must liaise with a training provider, who will deliver accredited training to support the apprenticeship, regarding any grant, which could be up to £3,000, to help with costs.

What support will I receive if I hire an apprentice?
Your training provider will provide you with a full list of support. If you are a small firm this could include help with paperwork.

How many hours is the apprentice supposed to work for?
At least 30 hours per week.

Is the apprentice subject to the same rules as other employees?
Yes, they should be employed under the same conditions as any other employee but note that the contract must cover S32 of the Apprenticeships, Skills, Children and Learning Act 2009 (ASCLA) (external link). More information on this can be found at the NAS website (external link).

How much do I have to pay an apprentice?
The National Minimum Wage (NMW) for an apprentice as of April 2022 is £4.81 per hour. However, in order to support apprentices to better deal with the cost of living and to further improve retention, we strongly advise that apprentices are paid more than the legal minimum. Haringey Council have taken the lead on this by paying its apprentices at least the upper age range NMW per hour for the first 6 months and increase to the London Living wage of £10.75 per hour thereafter. Further information can be found on the GOV.UK website (external link).

Am I responsible for the apprentices’ travel costs and/or lunch?
No, apprentices are responsible for their own travel and lunch costs. They may be eligible for 16+ Zip Oyster photocard (external link) or Apprentice Oyster photocard (external link).

Do I have to offer a permanent position at the end of the apprenticeship?
No

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Further information

If you would like to speak to someone to get more information about how an apprenticeship could benefit you please contact economic.regeneration@haringey.gov.uk

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