Employer FAQs

What is a Modern Apprenticeship?

Modern Apprenticeships (MA) help employers develop their workforce by training new staff and upskilling existing employees. Apprentices work while earning a qualification relevant to your industry, bringing fresh talent and skills to your business.

We support both employers and apprentices throughout the process, from funding to training delivery, ensuring apprentices achieve their qualification.

Who pays for the training?

Skills Development Scotland provides funding to cover some or all of the costs of training and assessing Modern Apprentices. The level of funding depends on:

• The apprentice’s age
• The qualification level
• The apprenticeship sector

Additional funding is available for apprentices who are disabled or care-experienced, up to and including age 29.

Our Work-based Learning team can advise on funding eligibility and support options.

Who pays the Modern Apprentice's salary?

Apprentices are your employees, so you are responsible for their wages. Salaries should be competitive to attract the best candidates. At minimum, you must pay the National Minimum Wage.

Who pays for the Modern Apprentice's equipment?

You must provide all the necessary tools and equipment your apprentice needs to perform their job.

What is an apprenticeship framework?

We work closely with Skills Development Scotland and a variety of sector skills councils to offer a range of modern apprenticeship frameworks in a range of disciplines.

A framework outlines the skills, knowledge, and qualifications an apprentice will gain throughout their training. Frameworks typically include:

• The expected duration of the apprenticeship
• A relevant industry qualification
• Industry-specific training
• Core skills development (Essential workplace abilities, such as communication, numeracy, and problem-solving. If you’ve already achieved these through school, college, or previous training, you may not need to repeat them as part of your apprenticeship.)

When do apprentices attend college?

College attendance varies depending on the apprenticeship framework. Some apprentices may attend college on a block-release or day-release basis. In some cases, apprentices are assessed entirely in the workplace, with an assessor visiting to review progress and complete assessments. The specific arrangement for your apprentice will be discussed during enrolment to ensure it aligns with their job role and training requirements.