Hiring a Construction Apprentice: The Employer FAQ Guide

1. What is the cost to hire a construction apprentice?

Hiring a construction apprentice through The Skills Centre can be a low-cost way to grow your team. The apprenticeship training is funded via your Apprenticeship Levy or government funding if you’re a non-levy employer (you have a 5% payment contribution over the period of the apprenticeship if you’re a non-levy employer). Funding covers between 95% and 100% depending on the age of the learners and their background, with additional grants available for taking on learners meeting certain criteria.  Your main cost as an employer is the apprentice’s wages, which must meet or exceed the national living wage for apprentices.   

2. Can I hire an apprentice if I’ve never employed one before?

Yes – any employer can hire a construction apprentice, even if it’s your first time. At The Skills Centre, we work with both small businesses and large contractors, guiding you through the process of recruiting, funding, and supporting apprentices, with no prior experience required. We can also provide training and support for your team on the ground, equipping them to best support your learner and ensuring the best possible outcome for all parties. Apprentices can be interviewed and directly recruited from our skills bootcamps.  

3. How long does a Level 2 Apprenticeship take?

Our Level 2 Apprenticeships typically takes around 17 – 21 months to complete depending on the programme. Please check the individual apprenticeships for completion times and associated progression points, as this will vary. 

Apprentices combine paid on-site work with structured, off-the-job training, building both technical skills and practical experience in interior systems. At The Skills Centre, we recommend block release – meaning your apprentice will spend 3-4 consecutive days at our training centre each month, building skills and knowledge to add new value to your business.  

4. How does the Apprenticeship Levy work for construction employers?

The Apprenticeship Levy is paid by businesses with a payroll over £3 million. These funds can be used to cover 95-100% of apprenticeship training costs, including construction trades like Dry Lining. Smaller employers receive similar government funding. The Skills Centre can help you navigate the Apprenticeship Levy to make the most of your available funds.  

5. What government funding and incentives are available for hiring apprentices?

Employers hiring apprentices through The Skills Centre benefit from government-funded training via the Apprenticeship Levy or co-investment. Incentive payments may also be available for hiring young apprentices (under 25) or those requiring additional support. We can also support your recruitment through our specialist Skills Bootcamps. These free programmes provide intensive introductions to key trades such as Dry Lining, Formwork and Steelfixing, and help source motivated learners ready to work. We’ll help you access the latest funding opportunities. Following the successful completion of one of our bootcamps or pre-employment courses, learners will come away with a CSCS green card, enabling them to work onsite.  

6. What are the minimum wage and employment rights for apprentices?

Apprentices must be paid at least the National Minimum Wage for apprentices, which is currently £7.55 per hour and will rise to £8.00 per hour on April 1, 2026 (for those under 19 or in their first year). Apprentices are also entitled to paid holiday, sick leave, and standard employment protections. 

At The Skills Centre, we recommend paying the relevant living wage, as this provides learners with the most stable basis for their training, and is competitive with the wider industry.  

7. What is off-the-job training in apprenticeships?

Off-the-job (OTJ) training is a legal requirement for all UK apprenticeships, including in construction. Apprentices must spend at least 20% of their paid working hours in structured training, which may include workshops, practical sessions, and online learning. At The Skills Centre, we make off-the-job training flexible and worksite-friendly, grouping training into 3-4 day blocks taken once per month. Block release enables learners more focused training time, and better equips them with new skills and knowledge on their return to the workplace. Off the job hours are boosted by working with employers to contribute toward their overall OTJH requirements for the apprenticeship (these hours vary per apprenticeship standard)   

8. Can existing employees complete apprenticeships?

Yes. Existing staff can undertake apprenticeships to gain new skills or qualifications. Whether upskilling in a new trade like Dry Lining or progressing into supervisory roles, The Skills Centre can enrol your current employees onto relevant apprenticeship standards. 

9. What commitment does my business need to make to take on an apprentice?

As an employer, you provide the foundation for an apprentice's success by offering consistent employment, facilitating required off-the-job training, and overseeing practical, hands-on learning. To ensure high standards, you must provide thorough onsite mentoring as outlined in the specific apprenticeship framework. The Skills Centre offers dedicated support to help you manage these compliance requirements seamlessly, ensuring your apprentice thrives with minimal disruption to your daily operations. 

10. What are the benefits of hiring apprentices in construction?

Hiring a construction apprentice can help your business close skills gaps, improve staff retention, and build a pipeline of future talent, while supporting your section 106 and social value aims. Apprentices trained through The Skills Centre arrive site-ready and prepared to contribute from day one, after completing pre-apprenticeship training and work placements.

11. How can I assess apprentice skills and fit before hiring?

With The Skills Centre’s 2-week work placement, you can trial candidates before committing to the apprenticeship. This gives you the chance to assess practical skills, attitude, and cultural fit – helping you hire with confidence. Our bootcamp and pre-employment programmes also provide employers with opportunities to come and visit learners, carry out interviews with candidates that are suited the specific standards.  

12. Do I need to provide mentors or supervisor training for apprentices?

While apprentices should have on-site supervision, The Skills Centre offers train-the-trainer support to help your team mentor apprentices effectively. This ensures your experienced staff are confident supporting new talent on-site. It’s greatly beneficial for the apprentice’s progression, that they can rely upon consistent support throughout their apprenticeship. 

13. Who handles the paperwork and compliance for apprenticeships?

The Skills Centre manages the administration, paperwork, and compliance aspects of apprenticeship delivery. From enrolment to funding claims and progress reporting, we handle the process – keeping it simple for your business. 

14. How do apprenticeships support long-term workforce planning?

Construction apprenticeships help businesses develop a steady flow of skilled workers tailored to their needs. Apprentices can become long-term employees, progressing into specialist or supervisory roles – reducing your reliance on external recruitment. 

15. What ongoing support will The Skills Centre provide during the apprenticeship?

Throughout the programme, The Skills Centre offers monthly reports, regular progress (every 8-12 weeks, until apprenticeship completion) reviews, and employer check-ins. Our team is always available to support you and your apprentice from induction to completion.  

16. What apprenticeships does The Skills Centre offer?

The Skills Centre offers apprenticeships in Dry Lining, Formwork, Steel Fixing, Groundworks and Highways Maintenance. You can learn more about our programmes and request more information here. 

17. Do apprentices work towards their Blue CSCS card?

Once in apprenticeships learners work towards a Level 2 in a trade which once completed, they can apply for their CSCS Skilled Worker (Blue Card). 

Build Your Future Workforce Today

The construction landscape is evolving, but the need for reliable, skilled talent remains constant. Apprenticeships are more than just a training programme, they are a strategic investment in the long-term resilience of your business. By partnering with The Skills Centre, you gain access to site-ready individuals without the administrative headache, allowing you to focus on what you do best.

Ready to get started? Contact us today to discuss your funding options or to book a visit to one of our training centres to meet our latest cohort of bootcamp graduates.