Update to 20% off-the-job training requirement for apprenticeships

The Government has updated the funding rules for the 20% off-the-job training requirement for apprenticeships. We have outlined below why this update has been made, and what the new off-the-job training rule means for both employers and apprentices.

Off-the-job training

Off-the-job training is an essential part of any apprenticeship. It teaches the key knowledge, skills, and behaviours that an apprentice needs to thrive, not only in their current workplace, but also in their long-term career.

The training is typically delivered by a college or training provider during normal working hours and can be made up of a combination of activities, including attending lectures, watching informational videos, and participating in workshops.

Previous 20% requirement

Prior to 1 August 2022, apprentices were required to dedicate 20% of their working hours to off-the-job training. This time for study would sit alongside their day-to-day responsibilities for their employer.

However, this meant that the amount of time spent training was different for apprentices across the UK, as those who worked longer hours were required to dedicate more time to training in order to fulfil the 20% requirement.

New six-hour requirement

Since 1 August 2022, apprentices no longer needed to dedicate 20% of their working hours to training. Instead, each apprentice, no matter their working hours, must undertake a minimum average of six hours of training per week (alongside their day-to-day responsibilities with their employer).

This rule applies to all apprentices and will make planning and scheduling work around an apprenticeship simpler. It will also prove beneficial to employers, as an apprentice will be able to dedicate more of their working week to fulfilling their job function.

The ESFA has confirmed that, despite this update to the off-the-job training requirement, the volume of training hours delivered must be supported by an initial assessment, and that some apprentices and standards will need more than the minimum requirement.

Our Head of Employer Engagement, Katherine McKenna, welcomes this rule change; “I’m really pleased to hear that the Government has updated the 20% off-the-job training rule – it’s important for apprentices to have balance as they navigate their roles and responsibilities alongside training without feeling overwhelmed. The key is for training providers and employers to fully support and understand each apprentice’s needs.”

Mindful Education – Flexible Apprenticeships

Mindful Education’s professional apprenticeships provide flexibility for both the apprentice and employer. With access to our on-demand learning platform, apprentices do not have to carry out the entire six hours of training in one go and instead can complete training how, when and where they choose. Our data and progress-tracking analytics also automatically evidence the off-the-job training requirement, making it easier for employers to track their apprentices’ training.

It’s important to note that the 2022-2023 funding rules will apply to apprentices starting between 1 August 2022 and 31 July 2023.

If you are interested in discussing our apprenticeship offer with one of our team, then please email apprenticeships@mindful-education.co.uk.

 

Resources

https://www.fenews.co.uk/exclusive/change-to-off-the-job-requirement-removes-barrier-to-apprenticeships/

https://www.wtpn.org.uk/single-post/simplifying-and-improving-apprenticeships-esfa-scraps-20-off-the-job-training-requirements