Apprenticeship Funding at the University of Kent

Apprenticeship funding

Funding solutions for Kent apprenticeship programmes, designed to support both employers and apprentices.

Funding Opportunities

Employers can get help from the government to pay for apprenticeship training. The amount of funding depends on whether they pay the apprenticeship levy.

The Apprenticeship Levy is a UK tax introduced in April 2017. It mandates employers with annual payrolls over £3 million to contribute 0.5% of their total payroll. These funds are allocated for apprenticeship training within the company or can be transferred to other businesses for similar purpose.

Funding can be used to upskill both new apprentices and current employees, making it a flexible solution for various training needs. 

  • Levy-paying employers can use their levy funds to cover 100% of training and assessment costs, with an additional 10% top-up from the government. 
  • If you do not pay the apprenticeship levy, you will only need to contribute 5% towards the cost of training and assessment, with the government covering the remaining 95%.

Employers can manage apprenticeship funding through their Apprenticeship Service Account, an online government service that simplifies the process.

Apprentice Support

Apprentices do not have to bear the costs of their training and assessment, as these are covered through employer funding or government support. 

Additionally, apprentices are entitled to receive a wage, ensuring they earn while they learn. This support enables apprentices to focus on their studies and practical experience without the burden of tuition fees.

Wages for Apprentices

  • Employers are responsible for paying apprentices for their normal working hours and any training they do as part of the apprenticeship. 
  • Apprentices must be paid at least the National Minimum Wage rate, which varies depending on their age and the year of their apprenticeship. 
  • The employment contract should clearly confirm the rate of pay for apprentices.


Criteria and Requirements:

Funding Bands

There are 30 funding bands, each with an upper limit of funding available for each apprenticeship. These bands range from £1,500 to £27,000, depending on the level and complexity of the apprenticeship.

Duration of Apprenticeships 

The minimum duration for an apprenticeship is 12 months. Funding is only available for apprenticeships meeting this requirement.

Off-the-Job Training

At least 20% of an apprentice’s working hours must be spent on off-the-job training. This training must be directly relevant to the apprenticeship standard and can include learning that takes place at work, at home, or at a training provider’s site.

For more detailed guidance on how to apply for funding, manage funds, and understand the specific rules that apply, please get in touch.

Get in Touch

If you have any questions about Kent programmes, need help selecting the right apprenticeship or require information on funding, timelines and more, please don't hesitate to reach out. 

We're always here to help you navigate through the process.