Apprenticeship Frequently Asked Questions
Checkout our Apprentice FAQ’s below
Who are Next Step Apprenticeships and what do they do?
Next Step Apprenticeships are an Independent Training Provider who provides apprenticeship training which is funded by the Department for Education.
We are approved to deliver courses with these awarding organisations: City and Guilds, NCFE, CACHE, BCS, CIM and Highfield
What do I need to provide to apply for an apprenticeship vacancy?
You will need to provide an up-to-date CV and cover letter which explains why you are applying for the vacancy.
What does the apprenticeship entail?
The apprenticeship will include training from your employer and training on your apprenticeship course from Next Step Apprenticeships. Once you have completed your apprenticeship you will be fully trained in your job role, and you will have learned new skills. You will also have completed your apprenticeship course and will have achieved an accredited and recognised qualification.
What employment rights does an apprentice have?
An apprentice is entitled to the same employment rights as any other employee and should be treated in the same way as any other employee within the company.
What is the minimum hourly apprenticeship wage?
The minimum hourly apprenticeship wage changes every year on the 1st April. The current minimum hourly apprenticeship wage is £7.55 but most employers will pay more than this amount. Once you have been on your apprenticeship for one year and if you are then 18+ years old your hourly rate will rise to the national minimum wage for your age.
How many hours does an apprentice have to work a week to complete an apprenticeship?
An apprentice must work a minimum of 30 hours per week.
Does an apprentice have to have a contract of employment?
An apprentice must have a contract of employment to work with an employer.
What are Off the Job Training hours?
Off the job training hours are the hours (paid during working time) that your employer will allocate to you, to complete your apprenticeship course work and to learn new skills. Off the job training hours total 6 hours per week.
Once I have been recruited, how long will I wait until I start my apprenticeship?
Once you have been recruited, we will allow you a month to settle into your job role and then we will enrol you onto your apprenticeship course.
What is the End Point Assessment (EPA) and what does it entail?
The end point assessment takes place at the end of your course, once your Skills Coach and employer confirm that you have completed all elements on your course. The assessment is conducted by the awarding organisation who run the course, and they check the knowledge and skills that you have learned from your employer and on your course. The assessment can be a knowledge test, observation, presentation, professional discussion and these vary from course to course.
What are the rights of an apprentice?
An apprentice has the same employment rights as any other employee and is subject to the same rules and regulations as any other member of staff.
Can I do an apprenticeship if I have a degree?
You can complete an apprenticeship if you have already completed a degree, if the apprenticeship is not in the same subject area as your degree (you need to be learning new skills and knowledge) on an apprenticeship.
Do I have to complete English and Maths as part of my apprenticeship?
If you are 16-18 years old when you start your apprenticeship and are not exempt from Maths and English i.e. you have not already achieved the necessary grades (GCSE, Functional Skills or Key Skills) you will then need to complete functional skills.
If you are 19+ when you start your apprenticeship you can agree with your employer if they want, you to complete Maths and English as part of your job role.