NEWS
USEFUL RESOURCES
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How to take on an apprentice – GOV.UK
Step-by-step guide for employers. Good for reassuring potential clients that CMA aligns with official processes. -
Apprenticeship Funding Rules (ESFA)
Clear reference for employers about funding, responsibilities, and eligibility. -
Find Apprenticeship Standards – Institute for Apprenticeships & Technical Education (IfATE)
Searchable list of approved apprenticeship standards. -
Apprenticeship Levy: How it works – GOV.UK
Explains levy contributions, use of levy pot, and transfer options. -
Employer Guide to Apprenticeships (Department for Education)
Neutral resource that shows credibility, while CMA provides delivery. -
Apprenticeships: Guidance for Students – GOV.UK
Outlines pay, conditions, and expectations for learners. -
Your Apprenticeship: What You Need to Know (Education & Skills Funding Agency PDF)
Official handbook explaining rights, pay, off-the-job training, and support. -
Ofsted Apprenticeship Inspection Framework
Shows how quality is measured across providers – builds trust in CMA’s quality commitment. -
Institute for Apprenticeships – Quality Statements
Clear national standards for apprenticeship delivery.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
What is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a work-based learning program that allows individuals to earn a wage while gaining hands-on experience and formal qualifications in a specific field. Apprenticeships combine practical work with study, helping apprentices develop skills that employers value.
Can I do an apprenticeship if I’m already employed?
Yes, many employers offer apprenticeships to existing staff as part of workforce development. Speak to your employer about opportunities to upskill or retrain through an apprenticeship program.
Who pays for an apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships are government funded. The money is taken from what is known as the apprenticeship levy. Whilst there are specific rules around funding based on the size of organisations and other stipulations, for many employers either the costs are already accounted for, or levy transfers can be made available. In such instances – both employer and employee can embark on apprenticeship training free of charge!
What Is the Apprenticeship Levy?
The Apprenticeship Levy is a UK government initiative designed to help businesses invest in workforce development—without additional commercial costs. If your organisation has an annual payroll over £3 million, you’re already contributing to the Levy. If you don’t, then there are many organisations looking to transfer unspent levy to you.
It’s a funding mechanism that allows employers to pay for apprenticeship training using money already set aside by the government. These funds are stored in your Apprenticeship Service account and can be used to upskill new or existing employees.
How Can You Use It?
You can apply Levy funds to any apprenticeship programme. Whether you’re looking to reskill current staff or bring in fresh talent, the Levy is your gateway to high-impact training.
Common Questions Answered
- What can the Levy be spent on?
Approved apprenticeship training programmes. - Do Levy funds expire?
Yes—unused funds expire after 24 months. - Can I transfer funds?
Employers can transfer up to 25% of their annual Levy funds to other organisations. - What if I don’t pay the Levy?
You can still access government funding for apprenticeships. - Do employees contribute?
No, the Levy is funded entirely by employers.
How to Set Up Apprenticeship Service Account?
To access government funding for apprenticeship training, employers must create an Apprenticeship Service Account. This account allows you to manage apprenticeships, allocate funding, and collaborate with training providers like Community Matters.
What You’ll Need Before You Start
Make sure you have the following details ready:
- Authorised Contact: You must be someone who can legally sign agreements on behalf of your organisation.
- Email Address: A valid email is required to receive verification codes.
- Companies House Number: You can find this at the website.
- PAYE Scheme Information: You’ll need either:
- Your Government Gateway ID and password (organisation-level only), or
- Your Account Office Reference Number (a 13-character code from HMRC).
Step-by-Step Setup Guide
- Visit the Apprenticeship Service Portal
Go to accounts.manage-apprenticeships.service.gov.uk to begin. - Create Your User Profile
Enter your personal and organisational details. You’ll receive a verification code via email—enter this to confirm your account. - Add Your PAYE Scheme
Use either your Government Gateway credentials or your Account Office Reference Number to link your PAYE scheme. - Connect Your Organisation
Use your Companies House Number to search and link your business to the account. - Accept the Employer Agreement
Your account will remain limited until you accept this agreement with the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA).
Linking with the Training Provider
Once your account is active:
- Navigate to the Apprenticeships section.
- Select Your training providers.
- Click Add a training provider.
- Enter Training Provider’s UKPRN:
- Confirm by selecting Yes, add Training Provider
- Return to the provider list and click Set permissions.
You’ll be asked to grant permissions for:
- Creating apprentice records – select Yes.
- Recruiting apprentices – select Yes if you’d like your training provider to help advertise vacancies. If you already have a candidate, this is optional.
Who can apply for an apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16, living in the UK. They are available to school leavers, those looking to upskill, people changing careers, and employees seeking to develop professionally. Entry requirements may vary depending on the level and type of apprenticeship.
What are the different levels of apprenticeships?
Apprenticeships are available at various levels to suit different educational backgrounds and career goals:
- Intermediate (Level 2): Equivalent to GCSEs.
- Advanced (Level 3): Equivalent to A-levels.
- Higher (Levels 4-7): Equivalent to a foundation degree or above.
- Degree (Level 6-7): Equivalent to a bachelor’s or master’s degree
How long does an apprenticeship last?
The duration of an apprenticeship varies depending on its level and sector. Typically, apprenticeships last between 1 and 5 years.
Will I get a qualification at the end of my apprenticeship?
Yes, all apprenticeships lead to nationally recognised qualifications. These may include NVQs, diplomas, or even degrees, depending on the level of apprenticeship you complete.
Can I do an apprenticeship if I already have qualifications?
Yes! Apprenticeships are designed for individuals at all stages of their career. Even if you have higher qualifications, you can still undertake an apprenticeship if it helps you gain new skills relevant to your current or future role.
Can I progress to a higher level apprenticeship or other qualifications?
Yes, apprenticeships are designed to be part of a career pathway. After completing an apprenticeship, you can move on to higher-level apprenticeships or pursue additional qualifications in your field.
Do apprenticeships have entry requirements?
Entry requirements depend on the apprenticeship level and field. Most intermediate apprenticeships have no formal requirements, while advanced or higher apprenticeships may require GCSEs or equivalent qualifications.
How do I apply for an apprenticeship?
You can search for and apply for apprenticeships on the Government Apprenticeships Website. Alternatively, you can contact local employers, training providers, or colleges for opportunities in your area. If you are interested in Community Matters apprenticeship programmes , then you can apply here.
As an employer, how do I find a provider?
Similarly to an employee you can search the Government Apprenticeships Website. Alternatively, you can contact local employers, training providers, or colleges for opportunities in your area. If you are interested in Community Matters apprenticeship programmes , then you can apply here.
As an employer, what do I need to do to support my apprentices?
Employers play a pivotal role in the success of apprentices. How to support your employees varies depending on the nature of the programmes, the amount of staff you may be looking to recruit or enrol and the responsibilities of your provider.
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