Our FAQs are here to guide you every step of the way, whether you’re considering starting an apprenticeship or you’re already on your journey.
Below you can find the answers to our most frequently asked questions about undertaking an apprenticeship. See what qualifications you need to undertake an apprenticeship as well as how long an apprenticeship programme takes to complete. Our FAQs will also answer any questions you have about how you will be supported by your through apprenticeship, from how you will get paid, through to the support from your employer and our in-house team.
An apprenticeship is a structured programme that combines on-the-job training with classroom learning. It offers individuals over the age of 16 the opportunity to gain practical experience in a specific profession while earning a wage.
Apprenticeships are typically supported by employers and taught by training providers, like Oxford Professional Education. Together, we provide hands-on training and mentorship to help apprentices develop the skills and knowledge required for their chosen career path. An apprenticeship is a valuable pathway if you’re looking to kickstart your career and secure long-term
To start an apprenticeship, you’ll need to be: 16 or over, living in England, and not in full-time education. You must be supported by an employer and will need to be working within the sector that you wish to complete your apprenticeship in.
If you’ve seen an apprenticeship you like on an employer’s website, you can apply for it directly. You may find that there are opportunities to upskill within your organisation. It may be a good idea to reach out to the Learning & Development contact to discuss what opportunities may be available.
Once you have been accepted onto an apprenticeship, your employer will get in touch with us to discuss training requirements and getting you started. You can also search and apply for opportunities directly through the government’s Find an Apprenticeship website
If you are aged 16 to 18, achieving Functional Skills qualifications in Maths and English is mandatory, unless you have already obtained the equivalent GCSEs at grade 4/C or above.
If you are aged 19 and over, undertaking Functional Skills is optional but must be agreed with your employer.
Apprenticeships can vary in the duration depending on the specific standard and level. The majority of our apprenticeships take between 1 and 2 years to complete. See the full list of our apprenticeship courses.
Yes, doing an apprenticeship is fantastic way to earn as you learn. The amount you earn will depend on your employer.
- Apprentices aged under 19, or aged 19+ but in their first year can be paid apprenticeship minimum wage.
- Apprentices aged 19–20, who have completed their first year must be paid Minimum Wage for their age.
- Apprentices aged 21 and over, who have completed their first year must be paid National Living Wage.
You can find more information on the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage on the UK Government website.
An apprenticeship opens up a world of opportunities and rewards. Here’s are some of the key benefits:
- Hands-on Experience: Apprenticeships provide practical, on-the-job training, allowing you to gain valuable experience in your chosen field. This hands-on experience is often more effective than theoretical learning alone.
- Skill Development: Apprenticeships focus on developing specific skills relevant to the industry or trade, ensuring that you are equipped with the practical abilities needed to succeed in your career.
- Earn While You Learn: You will receive a salary during your apprenticeship, enabling you to earn money while you learn. Unlike a university degree, you do not need to pay to do an apprenticeship, so you will complete your qualification debt-free.
- Structured Training: Oxford Professional Education offers structured programmes with defined learning objectives and milestones. This structure helps ensure that you receive comprehensive training and support throughout your learning journey.
- Industry Recognition: Completing an apprenticeship demonstrates to employers that you have acquired the necessary skills and knowledge within you chosen field. This can enhance your employability and open up career opportunities.
Apprenticeships are classified as full-time employment, with the majority of your education being spent on-the-job. Apprentices benefit from the best of both worlds, with hands-on, real-world experience complete with expert virtual workshops.
Yes, apprentices are entitled to paid holiday, just like other salaried employees.
While completing your apprenticeship, you will receive support from a variety of sources:
- A dedicated mentor – They will support you throughout your apprenticeship. All our mentors have been carefully selected for their industry knowledge, experience, and expertise.
- Our in-house team – They will help with access to resources, assistance, and advice.
- Additional learning needs – They will provide additional support if you have additional learning needs or a disability.
Safeguarding – Our Safeguarding Team is dedicated to ensuring your safety and well-being throughout your apprenticeship journey. You can contact them for any concerns or issues regarding your welfare by email or by calling +44 (0)7591 104118
The End-Point Assessment (EPA) is the final stage of an apprenticeship. It is an impartial assessment of whether the apprentice has developed the required skills, knowledge, and behaviours as outlined in the apprenticeship standard. Several methods can be used for assessment, including a professional discussion, project, multiple choice test, and presentation.
Through regular one-to-one visits by an experienced trainer, Oxford Professional Education will work closely with both you and your apprentice towards the end-point assessment.
Oxford Professional Education (OxPE) has been delivering high quality professional qualifications and apprenticeships for over 20 years. As an Ofsted Good provider, we deliver a wide range of exceptional apprenticeships that focus on adding real value to businesses and upskilling employees. Our success rate is outstanding, with 76% of our apprentices achieving a Distinction and an overall 100% pass rate. We teach bespoke programmes in the areas of Marketing, Sales, PR, Management, Procurement, Project Management, and HR.
Over the years, we have partnered with businesses of all sizes across a wide range of industries throughout the United Kingdom. Our training is specifically developed in line with your needs and requirements, focusing on flexible delivery modes and small cohort sizes. By collaborating with internal mentors and experienced personal trainers, our apprentices learn practical skills, develop talent, and help grow workforces.
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