Get started with apprenticeship programmes to provide an opportunity to learn whilst at work and time to learn away from work (within paid working time) and be independently assessed at the end (end-point assessment).
All apprentices must spend 20% of their time taking part in off-the-job training. This time away from their normal working duties allows them to gain the knowledge and develop the skills needed for their new role. The Department for Education has published some supportive materials to help everyone understand this important requirement. .
Recruiting an apprentice
Advertise your apprenticeship through the – your learning provider might do this on your behalf. You can also use apprenticeships for career progression for existing staff. Your learning provider will help you ensure that they’re eligible.
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Delivering an Apprenticeship
Employers should work with a learning provider who delivers the apprenticeship programme for them and who must be on the
As an employer, if you wish to deliver all or some of the programme yourself, there are three routes for employers to become training providers', .
Find a learning provider
Use our search directory for bespoke quality mark for learning providers within the adult social care sector.
End-point assessment
Each apprentice is assessed at the end of their apprenticeship, by an independent organisation and given a final grade. Your learning provider will help you source an End-point Assessment Organisation (EPAO).
Flexible apprenticeships
A new manual has been published to set out how flexibilities in apprenticeships can be used and delivered in health and social care to meet the needs of employers and apprentices.
The ‘Flexible Apprenticeships in Health and Social Care’ manual sets out:
- how the delivery of apprenticeship training can be flexed to meet employer needs, but makes sure the training lasts at least 12 months
- how the length of an apprenticeship can be reduced where an individual has existing relevant knowledge or skills.
Some employers are already making use of apprenticeship flexibilities and are seeing the benefits of this, in workforce satisfaction, productivity, and improved value for money. This includes employers and providers who co-authored the manual alongside Government.
PDF - 626kb
A manual produced by the Department for Education explaining the benefits of flexible apprenticeships.
Get in touch
For any enquiries on getting started with apprenticeships please email nwdcapabilityandskills@skillsforcare.org.uk