Apprenticeships Frequently Asked Questions
in Cumbria & East Lancashire

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Important Note for Schools looking for Teaching Assistant Apprentices

If you're a school looking for Teaching Assistant Apprentices please see the Teaching Assistant FAQ

General FAQ

1. How long does the Apprenticeship last?

   Learners can progress at their own rate and if they are well motivated, well supported by their workplace mentor, have access to suitable evidence and complete work set for them within the agreed timescales. If you are then willing to continue supporting the learner, they can then progress onto an Advanced Apprenticeship.
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2. What will the Apprenticeship cost?

   There is no cost for the training programme. The employer will be responsible for paying a minimum of £80 per week to the learner.
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3. How much work will be involved for my staff?

   The employer should not be faced with any more work than that they would give any new employee. They will be expected to give the new apprentice a thorough induction at the start of their training and be available to answer questions during the early stages of employment. We will expect each employer to appoint a named 'Workplace Mentor'. The Workplace Mentor will be responsible for providing day to day guidance to the apprentice during their time on programme, spending about five minutes every two – three weeks when our NVQ Assessor visits the apprentice to carry out assessment and meeting with the NVQ Assessor for about 15 - 30 minutes every 10 weeks to review their progress.
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4. How long will the apprentice be away for off-the-job training?

   The apprentice will be required to attend our training centre for one day every two weeks throughout term time. There may also be a requirement for the apprentice to attend short block release workshops during employer holiday periods but you will be advised of these in advance.
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5. Will we be required to deliver any of the training?

   Much of the informal learning will take place during their time in employer working with their colleagues and the children. Formal, planned and structured learning will delivered by RWP when the apprentice attends their workshops.
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6. Who employs the apprentice during their Apprenticeship?

   All the apprentices will be employed by you the employer.
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7. Will I be able to choose the apprentice?

   All applicants are interviewed by RWP Training prior to undertaking a comprehensive initial assessment. Learner profiles (CVs) will be sent to you so you can choose which ones are suitable and advise who you would like to interview. You will decide who you wish to appoint.
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8. If we know someone or already employ a young person aged 16 – 18, can we register them on the Apprenticeship programme?

   The programme is open to any young person aged 16 – 18 who meets the minimum entry requirements.
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9. Can I pay more that the minimum £80 per week?

   Yes, you can pay the apprentice a greater amount. Apprentices aged 16 – 18 are exempt of the minimum wage but apprentices aged 19 and above qualify for the minimum wage after the first twelve months of their Apprenticeship.
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10. Will I be required to employ the apprentice when they complete their Apprenticeship?

    If you have given the apprentice a permanent contract then yes: you can give apprentices caontracts that expire when they complete their Apprenticeship.
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11. Is there much paperwork or administration involved?

    At the start of the programme, there will be a number of forms to complete prior to taking on the apprentice. Staff from RWP will be available to help guide you through the process.
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12. Will visiting Tutors / Assessors be CRB checked?

    Yes, all staff employed by RWP Training have been CRB checked prior to employment.
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