Barnsley College has a great deal of experience in training Apprentices and can handle everything from the first enquiry through to completion of the Apprenticeship framework.

Why employ an Apprentice?

• To gain skilled, qualified and loyal staff in a cost effective way
• To ensure your staff have the most up-to-date training relevant to your business
• To ensure your business keeps up with the latest industry standards
• To make your business more competitive by addressing skills shortages
• To motivate and increase the productivity of your current workforce
• To enhance the performance and reputation of your business

Apprenticeships are for all age groups. There are three levels of Apprenticeship to suit the skills need within your company, which are:

Apprenticeship at Level 2 – Equivalent to 5 GCSE (A* - C)
Advanced Apprenticeship at Level 3 – Equivalent to 2 A Levels
Higher Apprenticeship at Level 4 – Equivalent to a Foundation degree

We offer a wide range of Apprenticeships in many industrial sectors, including Business & Management, Health and Social Care, Sports and many more. Please click here to see the types of Apprenticeships we have available. If you don’t see the course you are looking for, or you would like more information please contact us on 01226 216 166 or email: employer@barnsley.ac.uk.

Apprentices usually carry out most of their learning at work with some off-the-job training dependent on the sector and their role. You would pay your Apprentice a salary whilst they are training, a minimum of £2.60 per hour. More information can be found on the Directgov website.

Individuals will work towards the achievement of a NVQ, Technical Certificate, Functional skills and other training requirements defined for that particular occupational area. You will be able to choose the right pathway with the help of our specialist staff. Most of the training is completed ‘On-The-Job’ with day release to Barnsley College.

Common Questions Asked by Employers

1. What is an Apprenticeship?
The Apprenticeship scheme is a Government-funded programme enabling people of all ages to train whilst they are working.

2. How long does the Apprenticeship take to complete?
The Apprenticeship programme usually takes 12-24 months to complete, dependent on the level.  However, if you cannot commit to employing an Apprentice for that amount of time, then our Apprenticeship Training Agency (ATA)  would be ideal, as you only have to commit for a minimum of four months.

3. What do I need to do to employ an Apprentice?

Before your Apprentice can start with you your company has to:

• Agree to the Apprenticeship Agreement
• Have a health and safety check (by Business Education South Yorkshire (BESY), and provide us with a copy of your employer’s liability insurance

When your Apprentice starts their employment you will need to provide them with:

• A contract of employment
• A designated supervisor or manager
• An induction to the job role
• Study time

4. How much do I have to pay the Apprentice?

• If your Apprentice is 18 years of age or under, or in their first year of the programme, then you must pay them a minimum of £2.60 per hour.
• If your Apprentice is 19 years old or above (or) and has completed the first year of their Apprenticeship, you must pay the Apprentice the full minimum wage for their age.
• More information can be found on the Direct Gov website.

5. What happens if I find the Apprentice unsuitable or I no longer need them?
If you are not completely satisfied, or your circumstances change, please contact your key account manager. However, you will have regular contact with the College through a designated assessor so any issues relating to the apprentice should be picked up at an early stage, and you will be involved in the Progress Review meetings that take place on a 10 weekly basis.

6. How will an Apprentice benefit my business?

• High quality of work – Apprentices gain the training and skills relevant to their job role and your organisation 
• A good return on investment – Apprentices gain transferable skills and become invaluable members of staff
• Industry specific training – Apprentices receive relevant practical training and valuable qualifications
• Increase productivity
• Widen your recruitment base
• Allows you to ‘grow your own workforce’ and train them in the requirements of your individual company.

If you want to employ a new Apprentice or encourage an existing member of your staff to be accredited for their skills and knowledge, then we have the funding to support your business and its development needs.

To find out more about how an Apprentice could benefit your business and how Barnsley College can make it happen, please call the Employer Responsiveness Unit on 01226 216 166, email: employer@barnsley.ac.uk.