My Development

Can I choose any apprenticeship programme?

You will only be eligible for apprenticeships that align with your job role. This is because apprenticeships are work-based learning programmes, so you’ll need to demonstrate effective application of your new learning to your day-to-day work.

Can I do an apprenticeship if I already have a degree?

Yes, a qualification at a higher level in an unrelated area to the apprenticeship is fine.

It’s not possible to undertake an apprenticeship in an area where you already have an equivalent or higher-level qualification.

Do I need any prior qualifications?

To enrol, the provider is required to see your English and Maths GCSE certificates (grades A-C/4-9) or equivalent. This rule is set by the government and applies to all programmes regardless of level.

Alternatively, you will need to complete Functional Skills in English and Maths as part of the apprenticeship.

Certain apprenticeships, like degree level programmes, typically ask for specific qualifications or work experience. In a few cases this can include English and Maths GCSEs or equivalent.

Who will deliver my training?

All formal learning is carried out by a tutor or coach from the external training provider. Whether this happens online or face-to-face depends on the provider.

Some programmes also require apprentices to carry out a degree of structured learning through an online portal.

What’s the time commitment like?

You will need to spend an average of 6 hours a week (or 20% of your contracted hours if working part-time) on apprenticeship learning of some form.

Realistically, you will need to spend some time outside of work on your apprenticeship, particularly approaching assignment deadlines or exams.

Programmes have different durations. All apprenticeships last a minimum of 12 months. Some are several years long.

How much of a commitment will the apprenticeship be for my manager?

Managers play a crucial role in apprenticeships. They are required to attend and participate in the progress reviews you have with your coach from your training provider. These usually take place quarterly.

You manager will ideally help you identify areas within your role where you can carry out your new learning

The more supportive and involved your manager is, the easier you’ll find your apprenticeship journey.

Do I need to find a mentor?

An apprentice mentor is a colleague with expertise in the area you are studying.

Mentors are not compulsory, but they are a very useful source of additional support, as someone to help you understand new learning, or just as a sounding board. Apprentices with mentors have tended to have more positive experiences, so we do encourage managers to find mentors for their apprentices.

How are the training fees covered?

The Queen Mary Apprenticeship Levy covers all apprenticeship training delivered by the chosen provider. This does not always include additional certifications like Masters, professional registrations, or assessment resits/resubmissions.

Can the Apprenticeship Levy cover anything else?

The Apprenticeship Levy can only be used for the training you receive from your provider. It cannot be used for other costs, such as wages.

Is everyone eligible to use the Apprenticeship Levy?

No, there are conditions to accessing the Levy. E.g. you cannot be receiving funding for another course, and you must have been ordinarily resident in the UK for at least 3 years. Please read the Apprenticeship Funding Rules for full details on eligibility for funding.

Will my department have to cover any costs?

Some apprenticeships require you to purchase a professional registration. Your manager will typically need to approve the cost of this to be covered by your team.