Employer FAQs: How can we help you?

Hiring an apprentice is a cost-effective way to build a skilled workforce, develop talent, and prevent skills gaps. Here are just a few proven benefits of apprenticeships:

• 92% of companies believe apprenticeships lead to a more motivated workforce.
• 81% of consumers prefer companies that employ apprentices.
• 89% of employers agree apprenticeships increase workplace productivity.

We’re here to help you find the perfect apprentice for your business. For more information on how to get started, visit our ‘Recruitment services page’ or call us to discuss your requirements to list a vacancy.

As an employer, you need to provide a genuine job role with a contract long enough for the apprentice to complete their apprenticeship. The job must allow the apprentice to develop the skills, knowledge, and behaviours outlined in the apprenticeship standards. You’ll also need to support their development by giving them time to study and assigning a mentor or manager to guide them.

Not at all! Apprenticeships are open to anyone aged 16 or over. They’re a great option for career changers, people looking to upskill, or those wanting to learn while they work. In fact, 47% of apprenticeships started in 2019/20 were by people aged 25 or over.

Absolutely! Apprenticeships are an excellent way to develop your current team without disrupting your business. They also boost staff morale and show your employees you’re committed to their growth. We can guide you through available funding and grants to support this process.

Apprenticeships typically last 12 to 24 months in the Earl years and Childcare sector, depending on the programme and level. You can find specific details on the duration of each apprenticeship on our Apprenticeship programme pages.

The cost of apprenticeship training depends on whether you pay the apprenticeship levy.

• Non-levy employers: You’ll only pay 5% of the training cost, with the government covering the rest.
• Levy employers: If your pay bill exceeds £3 million a year, you’ll pay the apprenticeship levy and can use those funds to pay for apprenticeship training. The government also adds a 10% top-up to your funds.

The cost of each course is displayed on our apprenticeship programme pages.

You must pay your apprentice at least the National Minimum Wage for their age and year of training. Rates are updated annually, so make sure to stay informed on the latest figures.

Employers may not need to pay Class 1 National Insurance contributions for apprentices under the age of 25. The apprentice will still contribute, but you as an employer could benefit from this reduction. For more details, refer to HMRC’s guidance.

If your levy funds run out, you only need to cover 5% of the outstanding balance, and the government will pay the rest (up to the maximum funding band for each apprenticeship).

Yes. Apprentices must be offered the same employment terms as other employees in similar roles. This includes holiday entitlement, sick pay, and any additional benefits your staff receive.

Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to build a talent pipeline tailored to your business. Once an apprentice completes their programme, many employers choose to keep them on. They can also progress to higher-level apprenticeships, continuing to grow and invest in their career—and your business.

Training must be delivered by an approved provider. At Shaping Lives, we’re an approved training provider with over 20 years of experience, helping you select the right apprenticeship programmes for your team. We can also assist with recruitment through our free service.

All of our Early years apprenticeships are delivered 100% on-the-job.

Yes, though managing multiple providers can require more time and resources. We recommend finding one trusted provider who can oversee your entire apprenticeship programme to maximise impact and minimise management time.

EPA is the final stage of an apprenticeship, testing the apprentice’s knowledge, skills, and behaviours. At Shaping Lives, we’re proud to say that all learners who reach their EPA successfully pass their apprenticeship.