Recruiting an apprentice
Employing an apprentice offers numerous benefits for businesses, including cost-effective talent development and enhanced workforce loyalty.
Apprentices bring fresh perspectives, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn, which can drive innovation and adaptability within the organisation.
An apprenticeship combines learning at our training centres, with on-site experience, to give apprentices the right mix of technical and practical skills.
At Achievement Training, we guide your business through the entire process of employing a suitable apprentice for your team.
Please fill out our form below and a member of our team will be in touch to discuss your options.
Funding for Levy and Non‑Levy Employers
(Updated for all new apprenticeship starts from 1 August 2026)
Apprenticeships remain one of the most effective ways for employers to develop new talent, upskill existing staff, and strengthen workforce capability.
From 1 August 2026, the government has updated how apprenticeship funding contributions are described. The focus is now on what the government will contribute towards training and assessment costs, up to the funding band maximum.
The link below explains how funding works for levy‑paying employers, non‑levy employers, and how contributions change depending on the apprentice’s age.
Incentive payments for hiring a new apprentice
The Government is delivering the largest package of apprenticeship employer incentives in over a decade. These incentives sit alongside fully or majority‑funded training for many apprentices aged under 25, and National Insurance relief where applicable.
In the link below is a clear breakdown of the four employer incentives available from 2026, who they apply to, and when they can be claimed.
Foundation Apprenticeships at Achievement Training
Foundation apprenticeships are employed positions and are for younger people who will benefit from a wide range of experiences. Each foundation apprenticeship provides a mix of employability skills and behaviours, technical knowledge and skills, and associated English and maths. It combines valuable hands-on practice in the workplace with off-the-job learning. The apprentice’s experiences will not only help them to grow their skills but will also help to inform their next career steps.
Why should you hire an apprentice?
- Apprenticeships can help create a qualified and loyal workforce, which can help improve productivity.
- An apprentice’s training can be tailored to meet the specific needs of your business.
- Free recruitment support. We’ll advertise your vacancy, manage applications and help coordinate your recruitment.
- Cost‑effective development, with up to 100% government‑funded or low‑cost training depending on levy status.
- Employer Incentives. Your company could receive up to £3000, depending on the age and status of the apprentice. (Find out more)
- Apprenticeships are a fantastic opportunity for individuals of all age groups, provided they are over 16.
Apprenticeship off the-job training explained
Changes to Apprenticeship Maths & English Requirements
The Department for Education (DfE) has announced changes to the English and Maths requirements for apprenticeships, that came into effect from February 11, 2025.
Under these new rules, apprentices aged 19 and over will no longer be required to achieve a Level 2 functional skills qualification in English and Maths to complete their apprenticeship.
This change aims to reduce barriers to apprenticeship completion for adult learners. While achieving these qualifications is now optional for apprentices in this age group, developing English and Maths skills remains valuable for career advancement and daily life.
Additionally, some employers may still expect apprentices to complete these qualifications. The decision will be at their discretion, and apprentices are encouraged to discuss these requirements with their employer or training provider.
It is important to note that this change only applies to apprentices aged 19 and over. Apprentices aged 16-18 are still required to complete the Level 2 functional skills qualifications as part of their apprenticeship.
Achievement Training Ltd are committed to supporting all our learners throughout their apprenticeship journey. If you have any questions about how this change might affect you, please feel free to contact our Apprenticeship Team.
Tel: 01752 202264
Apprenticeship Enrolment Forms
Apprenticeship Enrolment Form (Employer) – Part 1
Please use this form if you are the employer wanting to enrol an apprentice.
Apprenticeship Enrolment Form (Apprentice) – Part 2
Please use this form if you are the apprentice wanting to enrol with a new employer.
Employer and Learner Handbooks
Skills for Life campaign
The Government Skills for Life campaign highlights the range of training and employment schemes available for businesses wanting to boost their workforce capabilities, including apprenticeships and T-Levels.
Please consider encouraging your employees to visit Skills for Life to take advantage of a range of training offers – including digital skills qualifications as well as numeracy and English language courses.
You can also support the training and employment schemes by downloading and sharing the materials in the campaign toolkits included below: