THE KTA APPRENTICESHIP GUIDE
Everything you need to know about apprenticeships
Whether you're considering an apprenticeship, developing an existing employee or recruiting someone new, our guide explains how apprenticeships work, how they're funded and what to expect from start to finish.
GETTING STARTED
Choosing the right apprenticeship and understanding what happens before you start.
FUNDING & SUPPORT
How apprenticeship training is funded and what support may be available.
TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT
How workplace learning, tutor support and progress reviews work throughout your programme.
COMPLETION & PROGRESSION
Gateway, end-point assessment, achievement and what comes next.
YOUR APPRENTICESHIP JOURNEY
How does an apprenticeship work?
An apprenticeship combines structured training with real workplace experience. You'll develop new knowledge, skills and behaviours while working in a genuine job and receiving support from both your employer and KTA.
CHOOSE YOUR APPRENTICESHIP
Choose a programme that matches your job role, responsibilities and development goals. KTA can help you identify the most suitable apprenticeship.
ELIGIBILITY & INITIAL ASSESSMENT
We'll check eligibility, previous learning and experience, English and maths requirements and make sure the apprenticeship is right for the individual and their role.
ENROLMENT & TRAINING PLAN
The apprentice, employer and KTA agree the training plan, programme expectations and how learning will be supported in the workplace.
LEARN & APPLY
Complete structured learning with KTA while developing and applying new knowledge and skills through real responsibilities in the workplace.
SUPPORT & PROGRESS REVIEWS
Regular tutor support and progress reviews bring the apprentice, employer and KTA together to review development, set goals and keep progress on track.
EPA & ACHIEVEMENT
Once the apprentice has completed their training and is ready, they'll progress through gateway to an independent end-point assessment before completing their apprenticeship.
WHO IS THIS GUIDE FOR?
Are you an apprentice or an employer?
Apprenticeships are a partnership between the apprentice, their employer and KTA. Choose the information most relevant to you below.
FOR APPRENTICES
Understand what to expect from your apprenticeship, including training, workplace development, English and maths, progress reviews, support, end-point assessment and what happens when you complete.
FOR EMPLOYERS
Understand your responsibilities, apprenticeship funding, employer incentives, workplace training, progress reviews, the Apprenticeship Service and how KTA supports you throughout the programme.
FOR APPRENTICES
What you can expect from your apprenticeship
You'll be employed in a real job while working towards a nationally recognised apprenticeship. Your employer and KTA will support you to develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed for your role and future career.
A REAL JOB
You'll be employed by your organisation, receive a wage and have the same employment rights as other employees, including paid holiday.
TRAINING DURING WORKING HOURS
Your employer must provide time during your normal working hours for the training required by your apprenticeship. Your training plan will set out how this development will take place.
YOUR KTA TUTOR
You'll have a dedicated KTA tutor who will support your learning, provide feedback, review your progress and help you work towards successful completion.
ENGLISH & MATHS
Your existing English and maths qualifications will be reviewed when you enrol. KTA will explain any requirements that apply to you and provide support where required.
PROGRESS REVIEWS
You'll have regular progress reviews involving you, your employer and KTA to discuss your development, workplace learning, targets and next steps.
END-POINT ASSESSMENT
Towards the end of your programme, you'll prepare for gateway and complete an independent end-point assessment designed to demonstrate the knowledge, skills and behaviours you've developed.
YOU’RE SUPPORTED THROUGHOUT
If you have questions, need additional support or experience any difficulties during your apprenticeship, your KTA tutor and support team are here to help.
FOR EMPLOYERS
What we need from apprenticeship employers
Apprenticeships work best when training and workplace development work together. As the employer, you'll provide the apprentice with a genuine job, opportunities to develop and the workplace support they need to successfully complete their programme.
A GENUINE JOB
Employ the apprentice in a suitable role that allows them to develop and demonstrate the knowledge, skills and behaviours required by their apprenticeship.
TIME FOR TRAINING
Provide the apprentice with the required training during their normal working hours and opportunities to apply their learning through meaningful workplace activity.
WORKPLACE SUPPORT
Provide appropriate supervision, mentoring and support so the apprentice can develop their skills, confidence and responsibility within their role.
PROGRESS REVIEWS
Take part in regular progress reviews with the apprentice and KTA, helping us review development, workplace performance and agreed actions.
SAFE & SUPPORTIVE WORKPLACE
Provide a safe working environment and work with KTA to meet relevant health, safety, safeguarding and welfare responsibilities.
SUPPORT THROUGH TO COMPLETION
Work with the apprentice and KTA throughout the programme, including preparation for gateway and providing the workplace opportunities needed to successfully complete the apprenticeship.
KTA SUPPORTS YOU TOO
You're not expected to manage the apprenticeship alone. KTA will support you with onboarding, training plans, funding requirements, progress reviews and apprenticeship administration throughout the programme.
FUNDING & EMPLOYER SUPPORT
How apprenticeship funding works
Apprenticeship training is funded through the apprenticeship funding system. The amount an employer pays depends on whether they pay the apprenticeship levy, the apprentice's age and the funding rules that apply when the apprenticeship starts.
NON-LEVY EMPLOYERS — AGED 16–24
For new starts from 1 August 2026, the government funds 100% of eligible apprenticeship training and assessment costs, up to the funding band maximum, for apprentices aged 16–24 working for employers who do not pay the apprenticeship levy.
NON-LEVY EMPLOYERS — AGED 25+
For apprentices aged 25 or over starting from 1 August 2026, non-levy employers normally contribute 5% of the eligible training and assessment cost, with the government contributing the remaining 95% up to the funding band maximum.
LEVY-PAYING EMPLOYERS
Levy-paying employers normally use funds in their Apprenticeship Service account to pay for apprenticeship training. Where levy funds are insufficient, the funding position depends on the apprentice's age and the current co-investment rules.
KTA WILL CONFIRM YOUR FUNDING
You don't need to work this out alone. KTA will review the apprentice, employer and programme details and confirm the funding position before the apprenticeship starts.
CURRENT EMPLOYER INCENTIVES
Additional support for employers
£2,000 HIRING PAYMENT
From 1 October 2026, eligible non-levy employers recruiting a new apprentice aged 16–24 can receive a £2,000 hiring payment. The apprentice must have joined the employer within the previous three months and meet the funding rules.
EMPLOYER NI RELIEF
Employers may not need to pay employer Class 1 National Insurance contributions for eligible apprentices under age 25, subject to HMRC rules and the relevant earnings limits.
OTHER SUPPORT MAY APPLY
Depending on the apprentice's circumstances, additional payments or employment support may also be available. KTA will help employers understand the support relevant to each apprentice.
TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT
Learning as part of the working week
An apprenticeship is more than completing online learning. Training must take place during the apprentice's normal working hours and should help them develop new knowledge, skills and behaviours that they can apply within their role.
STRUCTURED LEARNING
Complete planned learning activities with KTA, including tutor-led development, online learning, assignments and other activities relevant to the apprenticeship.
LEARNING IN THE WORKPLACE
Develop new skills through practical workplace activities, projects, mentoring, shadowing and opportunities that support the requirements of the apprenticeship.
TIME DURING WORKING HOURS
Employers must allow the apprentice appropriate time during their normal working hours to complete the training required by their apprenticeship.
APPLYING NEW SKILLS
Apprentices should have regular opportunities to put their learning into practice, helping them build confidence and demonstrate development within their role.
YOUR TRAINING PLAN
At the start of the apprenticeship, KTA, the apprentice and employer agree a training plan. This sets out how the apprenticeship will be delivered, the responsibilities of everyone involved and how the apprentice will be supported to develop throughout the programme.
The training plan is reviewed and updated where required as the apprentice progresses.
The training plan is reviewed and updated where required as the apprentice progresses.
SUPPORT THROUGHOUT YOUR APPRENTICESHIP
Progress reviews & ongoing support
Regular communication between the apprentice, employer and KTA helps keep the apprenticeship on track. Progress reviews provide an opportunity to recognise development, identify support needs and agree clear goals for the next stage of the programme.
REGULAR PROGRESS REVIEWS
The apprentice, employer and KTA meet regularly to review progress, discuss workplace development and agree priorities and actions for the next stage.
ONE-TO-ONE TUTOR SUPPORT
Apprentices receive ongoing support from their KTA tutor, including guidance, feedback and help with their learning and development throughout the programme.
EMPLOYER INVOLVEMENT
Employers play an important role by providing feedback, supporting workplace development and helping apprentices access opportunities to practise and demonstrate new skills.
ADDITIONAL SUPPORT
Where an apprentice needs additional learning or wellbeing support, KTA will work with them to understand their needs and identify appropriate support.
NEED HELP? TALK TO US.
Apprentices and employers don't need to wait until the next progress review to raise a concern. If something is affecting learning, progress or wellbeing, contact your KTA tutor or the appropriate member of the KTA team as soon as possible.
Safeguarding and welfare concerns can also be raised directly with KTA's safeguarding team.
Safeguarding and welfare concerns can also be raised directly with KTA's safeguarding team.
ENGLISH & MATHS
English & maths during an apprenticeship
English and maths requirements can vary depending on the apprentice's age, previous qualifications and individual circumstances. KTA reviews this as part of the initial assessment and enrolment process.
WE CHECK YOUR STARTING POINT
During enrolment, KTA will review the apprentice's existing English and maths qualifications and complete any assessments needed to understand their starting point.
REQUIREMENTS CAN DIFFER
The English and maths requirements that apply can depend on factors including the apprentice's age at the start of their programme, previous qualifications and the requirements of their apprenticeship.
SUPPORT WHERE NEEDED
Where English or maths development is required or agreed as part of the apprenticeship, KTA will explain what needs to be completed and provide appropriate learning and support.
NOT SURE WHAT APPLIES TO YOU?
You don't need to work this out before applying. KTA will check your qualifications and circumstances during enrolment and explain any English and maths requirements before your apprenticeship begins.
EMPLOYMENT & PAY
Employment, pay & working hours
An apprentice is an employee as well as a learner. They must be employed in a genuine role that provides the opportunity to develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours required by their apprenticeship.
EMPLOYMENT
Apprentices must be employed in a suitable role for the duration of their apprenticeship and have the same statutory employment rights as other employees.
PAY
Apprentices must be paid at least the legal minimum wage that applies to them. The rate can depend on their age and whether they are in the first year of their apprenticeship.
WORKING HOURS
The apprentice's working pattern must provide sufficient opportunity to complete their job and the training required by their apprenticeship. Part-time apprenticeships may be possible, with the programme duration adjusted where required.
HOLIDAY & EMPLOYMENT RIGHTS
Apprentices are employees and are entitled to statutory employment rights, including paid annual leave, rest breaks and other protections that apply to their circumstances.
YOUR JOB AND APPRENTICESHIP WORK TOGETHER
The apprentice's role must provide meaningful opportunities to develop and demonstrate the requirements of the apprenticeship. KTA will review the role and working arrangements before enrolment to make sure the programme is suitable.
COMPLETING YOUR APPRENTICESHIP
Gateway & End-Point Assessment
Towards the end of the apprenticeship, the apprentice will prepare for gateway and end-point assessment. This is the final stage of the apprenticeship and gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge, skills and behaviours they have developed.
PREPARING FOR GATEWAY
KTA will work with the apprentice and employer to review progress and make sure the required training and apprenticeship requirements have been completed.
GATEWAY
Gateway is the point at which the apprentice is confirmed as ready to move from the training stage of their apprenticeship into end-point assessment.
END-POINT ASSESSMENT
The apprentice completes an independent assessment of the knowledge, skills and behaviours required by their apprenticeship. The assessment methods vary depending on the programme.
ACHIEVEMENT & PROGRESSION
Once the end-point assessment has been successfully completed, the apprentice achieves their apprenticeship and can continue developing their career, professional skills and future progression.
INDEPENDENT ASSESSMENT
End-point assessment is carried out independently from KTA. We'll support the apprentice and employer with preparation for gateway and make sure they understand what to expect from the assessment process.
IF CIRCUMSTANCES CHANGE
Changes during your apprenticeship
Things can change during an apprenticeship. Whether it's a change of role, employer, working hours or personal circumstances, speak to KTA as early as possible so we can review the situation and explain the options available.
CHANGE OF ROLE
If an apprentice's job role or responsibilities change, KTA will review whether the role continues to provide the opportunities needed to complete the apprenticeship.
CHANGE OF EMPLOYER
It may be possible to continue an apprenticeship with a new employer. KTA can review the circumstances and support the apprentice and new employer with the steps required.
BREAKS IN LEARNING
Where circumstances mean an apprentice needs an extended period away from their programme, a break in learning may be appropriate. KTA will discuss the options and explain how this could affect the apprenticeship.
CHANGES TO WORKING HOURS
If working hours or working arrangements change, let KTA know. We can review the training plan and, where necessary, adjust the expected programme duration or training arrangements.
EMPLOYMENT ENDED OR AT RISK?
If an apprentice leaves their employer or is at risk of redundancy, contact KTA as soon as possible. Depending on the circumstances, there may be options to support continuation of the apprenticeship or help identify an appropriate way forward.
Each situation is different, so KTA will review the individual circumstances and current apprenticeship funding rules before confirming the available options.
Each situation is different, so KTA will review the individual circumstances and current apprenticeship funding rules before confirming the available options.
EVERY APPRENTICESHIP IS DIFFERENT
Assessment methods vary by apprenticeship and can include projects, presentations, professional discussions, interviews and other assessment activities. Visit the individual apprenticeship page to see how your chosen programme is assessed.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Apprenticeship FAQs
Is there an age limit for apprenticeships?
There is no general upper age limit for apprenticeships. They can support people starting their career, changing career or developing within an existing role. Eligibility and funding can vary depending on individual circumstances.
Can an existing employee complete an apprenticeship?
Yes. Apprenticeships aren't only for new recruits. Existing employees can complete an apprenticeship where the programme supports the development of new knowledge, skills and behaviours relevant to their role.
Does an apprentice need to be employed?
Yes. An apprenticeship combines employment with structured training. The apprentice must have a suitable job that allows them to develop and demonstrate the requirements of their apprenticeship.
How much does an apprenticeship cost?
The funding position depends on factors including the employer, apprentice's age, programme and start date. Government funding may cover some or all of the eligible training and assessment costs. KTA will confirm the funding position before enrolment.
Can an apprenticeship be completed remotely?
KTA delivers apprenticeship training flexibly, with online learning and tutor support alongside development within the apprentice's workplace. Apprentices must still be employed in a suitable role and have opportunities to apply their learning at work.
Can apprentices work part-time?
Yes, apprenticeships can be suitable for some part-time employees. The working pattern must provide sufficient opportunity to complete the apprenticeship, and the expected programme duration may need to be adjusted.
What happens if I already have qualifications or experience?
KTA completes an initial assessment before the apprenticeship starts. Previous qualifications, training and relevant experience are reviewed to make sure the apprenticeship is appropriate and to identify any relevant prior learning.
Do apprentices need English and maths qualifications?
English and maths requirements can depend on the apprentice's age, previous qualifications and individual circumstances. KTA will review this during enrolment and explain any requirements or support that applies.
What is end-point assessment?
End-point assessment is the independent final assessment of an apprenticeship. The exact assessment methods depend on the programme and are designed to assess the knowledge, skills and behaviours developed during the apprenticeship.
How do employers recruit an apprentice through KTA?
Tell us about the role you're looking to recruit for and KTA can support you with advertising the opportunity and attracting suitable candidates. You decide who to interview and who joins your organisation.
How do I get started?
Choose the apprenticeship you're interested in and register your interest with KTA. We'll then contact you to discuss the role, eligibility, funding and next steps.
Ready to take the next step?
Whether you’re looking to start your career in property or you’re an employer looking to develop or recruit talent, our team can help you get started.
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