Apprenticeships are work-based training programmes designed around the needs of employers, which lead to nationally recognised qualifications in a wide range of occupational areas.

You can use Apprenticeships to train both new and existing employees. You only pay their salary; funding is available to train apprentices from the National Apprenticeship Service.

Apprenticeships are designed by business representatives from the relevant industry sector who work with the Sector Skills Councils to develop the course content. As they understand your business, the training will be relevant for your industry.

Where the training takes place is up to you. Most of the training will be 'on the job' at your premises. The rest can be provided by a local college or by a specialist training provider. In some cases, you could deliver the training yourself.