Managing an apprentice or a group of apprentices might be a new experience for you. After all, modern apprenticeships are innovative, fast paced and exciting- that’s why we have designed this guide to help you and your learner(s).

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Based on feedback and frequently asked questions from Leaders in your position, this guide will go a long way to demystifying apprenticeships. From key facts to delivery information, this guide covers a range of topics , we hope you find it useful.

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It goes without saying, but your role is crucial. Effectively managing apprentices is beneficial for you, your organisation and the wider economy. However, you do not have to shoulder the entire responsibility: Together Training are here to support you and your apprentice/s throughout your journey.

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Progress Reviews

You will be invited to attend regular review meetings with your apprentice and their  Learning Coach throughout the programme. These will usually take place every 8-10 weeks and may be virtual* or face-to- face. You will be able to support & monitor your learner’s progress at these meetings.

*NB We use Microsoft Teams.

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Assessment schedules

Assessment schedules are planned to give you and your apprentice plenty of notice of classroom delivery sessions, assignment schudeling and key milestones within the apprenticeship programme.  If you need to reschedule any classroom training, try to do this well in advance as this may impact your learner’s experience, travel arrangements and programme duration

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Smart Assessor

Your learner will have access to an online learning portal called Smart Assessor.  This is where they will upload assignments they are working on and access online learning materials.They can communicate with their Learning Coach ,log their 20% Off The Job Training and access wider support .

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20% Off The Job Training

It is a government requirement that learners have 20% of their working hours dedicated to off-the-job learning. Classroom training counts towards this with the remainder taking place during working hours.  The  Learning Coach will create a calculator with you and your learner to plan & log there learning time. It may seem like a lot, but learners need this time during working hours to complete assignments and other tasks.

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All learners need to have a Level 2 Maths & English qualification before they successfully complete their apprenticeship. Before they start learning with us, all candidates will complete an online assessment to identify their capabilities in Maths & English.

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•  If learners have been able to provide GCSEs in Maths and English (or an acceptable equivalent included in the published list on GOV.UK) to the appropriate grade (A*-C or 9-4) as part of their enrolment, they will be exempt from completing a Functional Skills qualification.

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•  If not, learners will need to complete a Functional Skills qualification in Maths and/or English.

  During the Apprenticeship programme, all candidates (regardless of a Functional Skill qualification need or who have an exemption), will be developing their Maths and English to ensure these skills are stretched and challenged throughout their learning.

  Functional skills are mandatory and are essential to supporting longer-term career prospects. As part of the Government’s ambition for a world-class technicaleducation system and in line with recommendations from independent experts, progression towards and attainment of, approved level 2 Maths and English qualifications are an important part of the apprenticeship programme. Your learner’s Skills Coach will make sure they are prepared for the Functional Skills qualifications before booking exams.

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Our Learner Services team provide additional support for learners when they need it. They help by providing advice and guidance on anything from budgeting, information about grants (for eligible learners). They can also provide financial support or advice for learners that need extra help.

This includes Safeguarding and advice on the Prevent agenda. These will be discussed with learners at their regular review meetings with their Learning Coach.

Taking a proactive approach to Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. As a learning provider, we are here to empower everyone involved throughout this journey.

The Prevent Agenda is part of the government’s counter terrorism strategy. Its goal is to stop people getting involved in terrorism.

Enrolment

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Steps to a successful programme launch

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• Leading learners can be a new experience. This checklist will help you to set the tone for the rest of your learner’s journey. It will help you to give suitable, timely support for your learners as they progress through their journey.

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•  Get familiar with key areas of ESFA Apprenticeship funding rules. You can access the funding rules here – select ‘employer rules’ for the bit that applies to you.

•  Understand eligibility criteria. These are different for each programme (and can change) so even if you have had a learner before, it does not hurt to brush up here. Details can be found in programme brochures or contact John.mcmahon@togethertraining.co.uk

•  Support is available for the 20% off-the-job employer commitment. Find out more at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/apprenticeships-off-the-job- training.

•   Check in with your learner. It’s important they understand their commitment to the apprenticeship programme.

•   Keep in regular contact with Together Training. Your learner’s coach will be in contact with you and your learner. 

•   Learner details. Please make sure Together Training have been given all accurate learner details at least 6 weeks prior to programme launch.

•   Sign and return the Apprenticeship Programme Agreement - Compliance officer Silvia.pinto@togethertraining.co.uk

•   Create a new cohort on The Apprenticeship Service system (a member of the Together Training Team can help walk you through this process).

• Electronically sign and return all paperwork before the end of the Programme Launch.

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Onboarding Team

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