As apprenticeships continue to gain momentum in the UK, and more employers are thinking about hiring apprentices, it is important that firms are clear on their legal obligations.
Check out these three key points to remember when employing apprentices:
- Employers that hire an apprentice in connection with an apprenticeship framework must have a written apprenticeship agreement with the apprentice. This should cover things such as incidental costs, study time allowance, and preparations for if the apprenticeship is terminated early.
- An apprentice has employee status. They are therefore protected by a number of employment rights.
- Employers should pay the apprentice national minimum wage. Apprentice rate applies to apprentices who are aged under 19, or who are aged 19 or over but in the first year of their apprenticeship. Apprentices aged 19 or over who have spent a year in their apprenticeship must be paid at least the minimum wage rate applicable to their age.
