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Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Apprenticeship?
An Apprenticeship is a framework made up of the following qualifications:
An NVQ/ Work Based Diploma Level 2
Key Skills at level 1
A Technical Certificate/ Independent Assessment
1 day first aid course.
What is an Advanced Apprenticeship?
An Advanced Apprenticeship consists of:
NVQ/ Diploma Level 3
Key Skills Level 2/ Level 3
A Technical Certificate/ Independent Assessment
1 day first aid course.
What are Key Skills?
Key Skills are the skills that you need in order to operate confidently and successfully in school, work and training. You will be exempt from having to complete the Key Skills part of your framework if you have the equivalent to a GCSE or A Level at the relevant grade. Key Skills consist of a test and portfolio.
How Do I sign up?
You will need to be employed within a business for a minimum of a month and have the support and training from your employer. Once you have made a call to one of our Business Development Team, they will discuss with you your specific needs and make sure that we choose the right course to suit you. To speak to one of our business development team, call us on 01923 854586.
What is "Work Based" Learning?
Worked based learning lets you earn while you learn with courses designed to fit around you and your employer's needs.
What courses are on offer?
We have a variety of courses on offer, this includes Horse Care, Floristry, Animal Care, Horticulture and Management. We also have a range of short courses available for example First Aid, IOSH and Equine Transport.
How many hours do I need to be working?
The minimum amount of hours you need to be working is 16 per week but we would recommend an average of 30 hours per week. This will allow you the time to gather the experience and evidence for your portfolio.
What is the cost?
With the correct funding available (dependant on age and location) your course will be fully funded and will cost you nothing.
Do you have enrolment dates?
We do not have specific enrolment dates as we operate on a roll on/roll off system so you are able to sign up with us at any time of the year.
Does it matter what type of business I work at?
No, the type of business that you work at shouldn’t affect you in anyway, so long as the business is relevant to the type of course and that they have the correct facilities for you. All businesses under go a health and safety check prior to a sign up a to make sure that it is a safe environment for you to work in.
How long do I have to wait to be signed up?
All potential learners should be settled in their place of work for a minimum of a month ideally six weeks. However, if you are already working at a business and you have been there for over this timescale then one of our Business Development Consultants can arrange a visit sooner.
Can I apply if I do not hold any qualifications?
Yes you will be able to apply, we require that you must be living in England and not taking part in full-time education. All of the initial paperwork and assessment that you will complete helps us to make sure that we choose the right level for you.
What is APL/APE?
APL = Accredited Prior Learning APE = Accredited Prior Experience. These are factors that will be taken into account when deciding what level we will start you on when you begin your Apprenticeship.
I already have my BHS stages, will this affect me doing this course?
Having your BHS will not affect you doing the course. Nor will it affect your funding. The only thing it will do is count as APL (Accredited Prior Learning) and you may be able to go into your course at a higher entry level.
Is there a minimum or maximum age limit?
The minimum age limit for a level 2 qualification would be 16 years old and there is no maximum age limit dependent upon current funding and as long as you are in a full time job.
How often would my assessor visit and how long will each assessment take?
Your assessor will visit you in the work place every 4-6 weeks and will spend up to 2 1/2 hours with you on each visit.
Where can I find vacancies in my area or local to me?
We have an online Vacancy system which you can check to keep you up to date on all available apprenticeship roles. Please visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk
How long does it take for the completion certificates to arrive?
Completion certificates are usually received between 8-10 weeks after certification has been applied for.
Frequently Asked Questions for the Employer
What is required from me as the employer?
Provide a contract of employment
Pay Apprentices a minimum of £95 per week (based on full time hours)
Support and train your Apprentices
Provide a safe work environment for Apprentices to work in
What do I get from this?
To become a KEITS Approved Training and Assessment Centre
The opportunity to access Health and Safety advice and up to date market information
Receive a bonus payment upon full framework completion for your Apprentices
To be able to access funding for some of our short courses such as First Aid and IOSH
Will I need to send my staff for one day a week to college?
Your staff will not need to leave your premises as our specialist team of assessors will visit your Apprentices in your work place every 4-6 weeks for up to 1 1/2 hours per visit.
Do I have to pay minimum wage?
You are entitled to pay Apprentices £95 per week as long as they are receiving good training and support. If your Apprentices are aged 19 or over and have completed the first year of their Apprenticeship they are entitled to the National Minimum Wage.
Do I have to pay Tax and National Insurance?
As is the case of all employees aged over 16, all apprentices must still pay tax and national insurance on their income.
What facilities will I need to provide for my learner?
Each course requires certain facilities which are checked on your first business visit. For level 3 the facilities required are more specific. For further information please call a Business Development Consultant on 01923 854586.
What are the Health and Safety requirements?
All employers are required to hold a current certificate of Employers Liability Insurance, a Health and Safety policy and also Risk Assessments. Other checks will make be made on your business sign up visit and if help is required with these items we are more than happy to offer advice and guidance.
How do I recruit an Apprentice?
You can either provide KEITS with an advert to put onto our website or you can complete an Apprenticeship Vacancy form which we can send to you. Both are FREE OF CHARGE.
Can my current staff complete a course?
Yes, as long as your current staff are not undertaking any funded learning at the time and they fulfill the eligibility criteria for the current funding available.
Is there a minimum or maximum age limit?
The minimum age limit for a level 2 is 16 years old and there is no maximum age limit. We can also offer level 1 qualifications for 14-16 year olds. For further information on this please call Head Office on 01923 854586.
What is my maximum amount of learners I am allowed?
There is no maximum number.
Will the assessors come at times to suit me or are the times and dates set?
All of the assessors will try to be a flexible as possible to fit dates and times to suit you. All of our assessors have had previous industry experience within their chosen fields so they are understanding of your needs.
How long does it take to receive payment upon full completion of the Apprenticeship course?
Payment will be made to the employer via Bacs on receipt of all the certificates from the Awarding Bodies and the Sector Skills Council. The payment can take up to 8-10 weeks.
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