Apprentice FAQs

An apprenticeship offers the opportunity to gain a nationally, increasingly internationally, recognised set of qualifications through practical training on and off the job. Apprentices gain job-specific skills, work alongside experienced staff whilst earning a wage.

An apprenticeship really does offer you the best of both worlds.
As an apprentice you are an employee, with employee’s rights, wages and holiday entitlements.

In addition to earning whilst you learn, on completing your apprenticeship you’ll also have solid industry experience and valuable references on your CV.

Yes – if you meet the tax threshold. As an apprentice you are employed and all employees aged over 16 must pay tax on their income. However, if you are under 25 you are not required to a Class 2 national insurance contribution. Tax with be deducted as part of your employers PAYE process.

If you are applying for a new job and your application is successful, you will be put forward for interview. If you’re already employed, it’s unlikely you’ll need to have an interview, It is important to be prepared for your interview and we can help you prepare for this.

Yes. If you already have a job and wish to gain a nationally recognised qualification in that role, an apprenticeship is a great way to do it. A great way to start is to visit our employing an apprentice page ready to discuss with your employer or give us a call on 0800 783 2545

No. Your employer pays your wage and we apply for government funding from the Education and Skills Funding Agency to support the cost of your qualification.
Currently 100% funding is available for apprentices ages 16 – 18 and 95% for those aged 19 + (subject to the employers levy status).

You or your employer can call us to discuss any questions you have regarding funding on 0800 783 2545.

Yes. As an employee you are entitled to the same conditions as other employees working at similar grades or in similar roles. This includes holiday and sick pay and any other benefits offered to other members of staff such as childcare vouchers.

Details of this will be set out in your contract of employment provided by your employer.

Yes! apprentices are entitled to a NUS Card through the National Union of Students. For just £12 this card entitles you to discounts at many of your favourite high street and online retailers.

An apprenticeship is a job and in no way related to the academic calendar. You can apply for an apprenticeship at any time of the year.

Starting your training depends upon the availability of a suitable position being offered by an employer and your success in being accepted by that employer to undertake that role.

Your start date will need to coincide with your apprenticeship enrolment date. Your Personal Trainer will visit you and your employer at your new place of work on your first day.

If you’re not currently employed or looking for a new job, you can apply for apprenticeship vacancies advertised by employers looking to employ an apprentice, as you must be employed to undertake an apprenticeship.

You can view current vacancies here: apprenticeship vacancies

If you already have a job and wish to gain a qualification in that industry as an apprentice, this is possible subject to your employer’s agreement.

Yes. We’d love you to spread the word about the terrific learning opportunities we offer at Paragon Skills. We run lots a great incentive offers if you refer a friend, including entry into a monthly prize draw once your friend has completed 8 weeks of their course. The more friends you refer, the better your chances! Contact us to find out more.