What is a Modern Apprenticeship

You can learn while you earn...

A Modern Apprenticeship offers individuals the opportunity to earn while you learn. Designed specifically for people already in employment, it combines a recognised qualification with practical, on-the-job experience. You build new skills, gain confidence, and develop professionally – all while continuing in your current role!

Why it’s worth it: benefits to you

You’ll get so much from an apprenticeship, including:

• New skills and an industry-recognised qualification
• Greater confidence and  increased capabilities
• Open doors to promotion or new roles
• Earn while you learn – no need to leave your job!
• Build expertise to strengthen your CV

Why your employer will support you: benefits for them

Modern Apprenticeships don’t just benefit you - they bring real, measurable value to your organisation:

• Bring new skills and fresh ideas
  Apprenticeships introduce up‑to‑date knowledge and new approaches.
• Support staff development and succession
  They help grow talent from within and prepare for future roles.
• Boost productivity and innovation
  New skills help streamline work and spark better ways of doing things.
• Improve staff retention
  Investing in people encourages them to stay and progress.
• Access funding support for training costs
  Modern Apprenticeship qualifications are fully funded for anyone aged 16-24, and heavily subsidised for anyone aged 25 and over. If you're under 25, your employer may also qualify for relief on employers NI contributions, making training cost‑effective and accessible for everyone.

How to talk to your employer

So you like the sound of an apprenticeship but are unsure how to start the conversation? The good news is that most employers welcome opportunities to develop their staff. Here’s some tips on how to get started:

• Explore the apprenticeship programmes available. 
  Identify options that fit your current role or support the direction you want to grow in. Having a specific programme in mind shows initiative.
• Identify the skills, knowledge, and experience you’ll gain. 
  Be ready to explain what you’ll learn and how it strengthens your professional toolkit.
• Think about how those new skills will benefit your team or organisation.
  Managers respond well to tangible outcomes—improved efficiency, new capabilities, or added value to projects. 
• Choose a good time to speak with your manager. 
  Pick a moment when they’re not rushed or distracted. A planned meeting can help keep the conversation focused.
• Learn about the funding support available to employers. 
  Understanding how costs are covered helps address practical questions up front. You can speak to us first for some advice if you like.
• Be confident – taking the first step is often the hardest! 
  Most employers appreciate proactive staff. Framing this as a development opportunity for both you and the organisation sets a positive tone.