Frequently Asked Questions About Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships, you say?
As an experienced training provider with a large prescence in the healthcare sector, we frequently get asked questions about apprenticeships, how they work, and who exactly they are for. A key part of our role is helping both employers and employees make informed, educated decisions about apprenticeships by providing the latest advice and guidance to them.
We recently took part in National Apprenticeship Week 2025, and paid particular attention to the questions we are asked by both employers and employees during this time. Below are just some of the questions we came across, in hopes of helping you make the best decisions for both yourself and your workplace.
If you need any additional guidance, we recommend checking out our website resources or getting in touch with our dedicated team. You can find links to both of these below.
What Exactly Is An Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a work-based training programme. The apprenticeship includes training as part of the employee’s duties. Apprentices earn whilst they learn, gaining valuable skills and knowledge through both their job role and the training provided. Upon successful completion, the apprentice will not only have gained hands-on experience in their job role, but they will also receive a nationally recognised qualification.
Apprenticeships are a fantastic way for employers to upskill their workforce, and for employees to develop into their dream job role. Whether the apprentice is a new employee taking their first steps into their new workplace, or an existing employee who is looking to master their field, apprenticeships provide a platform for innovation and excellence.
How Long Do Apprenticeships Last For?
It depends on the specific apprenticeship programme. Apprenticeships can last anywhere from one year, to six years. This will vary based on the type of apprenticeship, the level of the apprenticeship, and whatever previous experience or qualifications you bring to your role.
How Much Of My Working Hours Is Spent On Training?
Apprentices require a set amount of their normal working hours to be spent on their training and development. This time is referred to as Off-The-Job training.
- If you work more than 30 hours a week, a minimum of six hours per week must be spent on Off-The-Job training.
- If you work less than 30 hours a week, 20% of their normal working hours over the course of their apprenticeship must be spent on Off-The-Job Training.
This time is specifically allocated by both the apprentice and their line manager, and is specifically for the purpose of achieving the knowledge, skils and behaviours necessary for the aprpentice to reach the required standard. Training outside normal working hours does not count towards this time.
Does The Apprentice Have To Pay Anything?
No, the apprentice does not pay towards their training. It is the employer who pays for the costs associated with the apprenticeship programme.
How Much Do Apprentices Earn?
For existing staff members who is starting an apprenticeship, your wage will not be impacted.
For new employees who are joining as an apprentice, it will depend on your employer. We recommend checking the most up-to-date guidance on wage rates here.
You must be paid for your normal hours of work and any training that is recieved as part of your apprenticeship. If you are unsure about exactly what you will be paid as an apprentice, we recommend speaking to the employer. They should be more than happy to answer any questions you have about your pay.
Can I Be Too Old For An Apprenticeship?
Absolutely not! There is often a false belief that apprentices are only for young people starting their career journey, when you can in fact take part in an apprenticeship at any stage of your career. At Dynamic Training, we have worked with apprentices of all ages.
Additionally, if you have already been an apprentice, you can always take part in another apprenticeship. The sky is the limit on your apprenticeship journey!
Can I Do An Apprenticeship If I Work Part-Time?
Yes, you are considered a part-time apprentice if you work less than 30 hours a week. This will impact the length of your apprenticeship, however. The exact length will be discussed and agreed with you to see whether you can commit for the full length of time.
Your Off-The-Job training time will also be impacted, and must take up at least 20% of your normal working hours, as explained above.
How Can I Apply For An Apprenticeship?
If you are looking to complete your apprenticeship with your current employer, first talk to your line manager about the opportunity to start an apprenticeship within your current role.
You are also able to search and apply for all apprenticeship vacancies using the National Apprenticeship Service website
For NHS job opportunities, you can use the below websites to help:
Further Apprenticeship Information
You can find information about apprenticeships across our website. In particular, we would recommend looking at the following areas of our website.
How do apprenticeships work? What is required from employers and the apprentices themselves during the apprenticeship process?
Let us answer all your questions about apprenticeships, the apprenticeship process and how to enrol staff onto an apprenticeship programme.
Find out how to enrol your staff in the apprenticeship process, and the benefits which come from using bespoke and accessible apprenticeships in your workplace.
Are you interested in enrolling in an apprenticeship? Are you unsure if an apprenticeship is right for you? Lets walk you through the apprenticeship process, the benefits and the frequently asked questions which we experience as experts in healthcare apprenticeships.
Dynamic Training has an expert team of trainers delivering high-quality apprenticeships across the health, social care and business sectors, making sure you get the best out of your workforce.
If you have any questions, or need any additional guidance, do not hesitate to get in touch with Dynamic Training.
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All of the Apprenticeships and Workshops we offer are purpose-built with accessibility and inclusion in mind. You can view our apprenticeships, view our courses or contact us to find out more about how we can empower you or your workforce with apprenticeships or training programmes.
About Dynamic Training
Dynamic Training are an apprenticeship, adult education, and bespoke training specialist. Working with a diverse customer base across a variety of sectors, with a significant presence within the healthcare sector, we believe passionately in providing high-quality and inclusive education at all times, empowering both employers and employees to reach their aspirations.
Dynamic Training have an incredibly passionate and experienced team of coaches, with a diverse range of industry experiences, who aspire to deliver the very best training and support. We stand out from other training providers through our strong commitment to accessible education, as well as our prestige within the healthcare sector.
Dynamic Training are experts in Healthcare Education. Follow our blog for the latest industry news, insight and advice from industry experts.
Dynamic Training has an expert team of trainers delivering high-quality apprenticeships across the health, social care and business sectors, making sure you get the best out of your workforce.
Dynamic Training cares deeply about creating an inclusive and accessible enviroment for our learners. We have a proud record of getting the best out of every learner and adjusting our training to suit them.
Learn more about how Dynamic Training has provided a positive and inclusive learning environment.