An apprentice must:
- Be over 16 years old
- Have lived in UK/EU for past three years
- Not be in full-time education
- Have a contract of employment longer than apprenticeship duration (term-time only roles are possible but extend programme duration)
Further criteria may apply depending on the apprenticeship type. The training provider will advise on this.
What do apprentices get paid?
Apprenticeships are entry-level posts with skills developed on job and through training. We have a special trainee grade for intermediate (Level 2) apprenticeships, rising to Grade 1 after 12 months. Advanced (Level 3) apprenticeships are usually paid at Grade 3.
External training providers may quote the national apprentice minimum wage, which is lower than the council’s apprentice wage. Schools where the council is the employer should not pay this rate.
Working hours
Most apprentices are on full-time contracts (37 hours/week). Part-time apprenticeships are possible but should be discussed with training provider. Time off for training is included in apprentice’s paid contracted hours.
Time off for training
Apprentices need to spend six hours/week or 20% of contracted hours on learning new skills. Training provider will advise on requirements and whether training requires day-release for college or can be delivered in workplace.
Finding a training provider
Schools can access levy funds through our early careers team, which will help identify a training provider and provide recruitment guidance.
Setting up an apprentice on IBC self-service
Record the start and end dates of apprenticeship training in self-service using ‘Manage apprentices’ for new apprentices. Only training start and end dates need to be recorded for existing staff starting an apprenticeship.
If considering taking on new apprentice but need guidance, email early careers team for support with job descriptions/training options. Follow usual recruitment process once job description is finalised/training provider sourced.