.png)
Frequently Asked Questions About Apprenticeships
- Anaïs Hegarty
- 14 hours ago
- 3 min read
We still hear the same questions time and again whenever employers or individuals start exploring apprenticeships. Some of them are understandable, some are based on outdated information, and some are simply myths.
So we’ve pulled together some of the most common questions, and answered them honestly and clearly.
1. What’s the catch?
There isn’t one.
Apprenticeships are a nationally recognised, government-backed route to developing skills in the workplace. That means you can access tailored, high-quality training for your team or for yourself, aligned directly to real job roles, without hidden costs or strings attached.
The only real requirement is commitment, from the employer, the learner, and the provider, to make the apprenticeship meaningful and valuable.
2. Are apprenticeships funded?
Yes.
For levy-paying employers, apprenticeship training is funded through the levy you already pay. For non-levy employers, the vast majority of the cost is covered by government funding.
If you don’t pay the levy, we can also support you to access a levy transfer from a larger organisation with surplus funds. This is a simple process and covers 100% of the training and assessment costs.
In practical terms, that means the end-to-end apprenticeship training and assessment is free at the point of use for most employers and learners.
Finally, depending on factors such as the apprentice's age or care-leaver status, additional funding may be available. Our experts will guide you every step of the way, so funding is straightforward and stress-free.
3. Is the qualification real?
Absolutely.
Apprenticeships lead to nationally recognised qualifications that are respected by employers and education providers, and many are recognised internationally.
To put the levels into context:
Level 3 is equivalent to A-levels
Level 4 is equivalent to a Higher National Certificate (HNC) or the first year of a degree
Level 5 is equivalent to a Higher National Diploma (HND) or foundation degree
Level 6 is equivalent to a bachelor's degree
Level 7 is equivalent to a master’s degree
These are substantial, credible qualifications that reflect real occupational competence.
4. What’s the time commitment?
Apprenticeships are designed around work, not instead of it.
Training is tailored to the organisation, meaning much of the learning is based on what the learner is already doing day to day, just with a stronger structure, reflection, and support.
Alongside this, the learner completes a work-based project agreed between the employer, the learner, and our expert tutors. The focus is on delivering real value from day one.
For example, this might be improving a sales process, leading a digital transformation project, or streamlining an operational workflow, all while building evidence that supports final quaification.
5. Can I do an apprenticeship?
If you are employed and have someone in your organisation who can support and supervise your development, then yes, you can do an apprenticeship.
Apprenticeships are not just for new starters or young people. They are designed for career changers, upskillers, and experienced professionals looking to formalise and develop their skills.
6. Can someone with a degree do an apprenticeship?
Yes.
Having a degree does not exclude you from doing an apprenticeship, as long as the apprenticeship teaches new skills that are relevant to your role.
In fact, many people choose apprenticeships after a degree because they offer:
Practical, job-specific learning
Additional recognised qualifications
Tailored development aligned to real responsibilities
And crucially, the training is funded, rather than personally paid for.
7. Do we have to go to college?
No.
We work with organisations that have complex, fast-paced environments where releasing staff for regular college attendance simply isn’t realistic.
That’s why delivery is flexible. We often compbine face-to-face delivery in the workplace, with online and even some self-serve learning.
The model is built around what works best for your organisation and your people.
8. How do I start?
The first step is simple.
Share a few details using our enquiry form linked below, and a member of our dedicated team will be in touch to understand your goals, your team, and whether an apprenticeship is the right fit.
From there, we guide you through the process, clearly, transparently, and without obligation.
Talk to our experts
To find out about our apprenticeships or how we work with you to ensure our training meets the needs of your business, give us a call.
Comments