CPD and Apprenticeships

Recent changes to the UK education system have seen the UK government invest and improve apprenticeships. With many more subjects available and employers investing more, they have become a viable qualification option for anyone at any stage of their career.

The CPD Standards Office is the only CPD authority to work at Government level to accredit apprenticeships. Part of the All-Party Political Group for Skills and Education, we continually campaign for excellence in lifelong learning.

There are, on average, in excess of 5 million individuals in the UK alone undertaking some form of CPD activity on an annual basis either as part of their professional commitment/s or simply to better themselves. This figure makes up approximately 15% of the UK workforce.

Accrediting apprenticeships for CPD purposes exponentially increase the sales opportunities available.

Independent CPD Standards accreditation also strengthens reputation and brand by demonstrating independent 3rd party verification and approval. This, in turn adds another layer of creditability to your training provision.

So, what is an apprenticeship – simply put it is a genuine job that offers a real wage combining practical training and study.

All apprenticeships include elements of on the job and off the job training, leading to industry recognised standards or qualifications. There are several levels of apprenticeships available:

Apprenticeships are available to anyone over the age of 16, living in England. The National Apprenticeship Service are working to ensure that high quality apprenticeships are a prestigious option available to all people and from all backgrounds.

Depending the job role, industry and apprenticeship level will determine what entry level requirements are needed.

Recent changes to the minimum English and Math’s requirements now mean that individuals with learning difficulty or disability can now access a level 2 intermediate apprenticeship as long as they can achieve an entry level 3 qualification during their apprenticeship.

The national minimum wage (NMW) varies depending on age and as of April 2018, was structured as follows:

Chart-for-App

The minimum duration of each apprenticeship is based on the apprentice working 30 hours a week or more, including any off the job training. The time spent on off the job learning should be at least 20% and should be included as part of the working hours.

Anyone undertaking an apprenticeship should receive:

  • An induction program on starting.
  • A detailed training program (including on the job training).
  • Regular progress reviews.
  • Opportunities to put into practice off the job learning in order to achieve qualifications / requirements of the apprenticeship.
  • Ongoing mentoring and support.

If an individual is not quite ready to undertake an apprenticeship – traineeships are open to those aged 16-24 and consist of a high-quality work placement with an employer. These consist of work preparation training and English and Math’s for those who have not achieved a GCSE grade A*-C or 9-4.

Click here to download our brochure about CPD and Apprenticeships.

If you would like to find out more information on CPD and apprenticeships, please contact our friendly team at info@cpdstandards.com or by phone on 0203 745 6463.