ApprenticeshipsNI is a work-based programme designed around the needs of employers that offers recognised training and qualifications to new and existing employees taking on new roles that require lots of training and development. The programme offers a wide range of apprenticeships at Level 2 and Level 3.

• Level 2 apprenticeship frameworks
• Level 3 apprenticeship frameworks

Opportunities are also available through Higher Level Apprenticeships for new employees or existing employees in a new job role wishing to gain qualifications from Level 4 to Level 7.

Who is eligible to take part in Apprenticeships?

Apprenticeships are open to new employees or existing employees taking on a new role within a Northern Ireland-based company.

Your apprentice needs to:

• be the minimum school leaving age in Northern Ireland
• be about to take up permanent paid employment as an apprentice with a Northern Ireland-based company, or be an existing employee in a Northern Ireland-based company who is about to undertake a new role that requires significant training and development
• employed by national companies that have operations in Northern Ireland who are employed at least 50% of their time in Northern Ireland and completing their directed training in Northern Ireland with an approved training contractor
• be permanently contracted to work a minimum of 21 hours per week (which includes time for 'off-the-job' training)
• meet the entry requirements of their chosen occupation; some apprenticeships require, for example, General Certificates of Secondary Education (GCSEs)

Your Higher Level Apprentice needs to, as a minimum:

• be employed or be about to take up permanent paid employment as an apprentice, or be an existing employee moving to a new job role, with a Northern Ireland-based company
• work a minimum of 21 hours per week (which includes time for ‘off-the-job’ training)
• have achieved all necessary entry qualifications determined by the relevant sector
• pass any entry tests specified by the relevant sector
• be the minimum school leaving age in Northern Ireland

Third-country nationals, including European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), and Swiss nationals, are eligible to undertake a Higher Level Apprenticeship/Level 2 or 3 Apprenticeship if they already have a right to live and work in the UK.

Legal responsibility for establishing that the apprentice has a right to live and work in the UK rests with the employer. See further guidance on working in Northern Ireland.

Apprenticeship training

An apprenticeship is a work-based training programme, most of the training is 'on-the-job' with you as the employer. This is usually four days a week. The rest is provided 'off-the-job', one day a week.

All of the Level 2 and Level 3 apprenticeship qualifications are set out in a framework and are available at Levels 2 and 3. They have been developed in liaison with industry representatives and are therefore tailored to ensure they meet the needs of your industry. Further information is available at:

• Apprenticeships qualifications explained for employers
• Getting an apprentice started

What is a training contractor/provider?

A number of training contractors including the six local further education colleges and College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) based across Northern Ireland have been contracted to deliver training in a variety of apprenticeships at Level 2 and Level 3. There are around 100 Level 2 or Level 3 apprenticeship frameworks to choose from.

Higher Level Apprenticeships are delivered through the six local further education colleges, the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE), and the three local universities. There are over 70 Higher Level Apprenticeships programmes available.

A training contractor/provider will help your apprentice achieve the qualifications and teach them the knowledge and skills to complement what they learn from you.

The training contractor/provider will meet with you and your apprentice to discuss their training needs and will then develop a training programme with them. They will be with your apprentice every step of the way throughout the apprenticeship to support them and ensure that are making progress.

The following links provide a tool to search for training contractors for Level 2 and Level 3 ApprenticeshipsNI frameworks, and a list of Higher Level Apprenticeships training providers including contact details and training offered in your area.

• Search for ApprenticeshipsNI Level 2 and Level 3 training contractors
• Higher Level Apprenticeships training providers on the nidirect website

What if your apprentice needs additional support?

As the apprentices are in employment when they start on the programme the Disability Discrimination Act applies making it illegal for employers to subject disabled job seekers and employees to disability discrimination. This includes failing to comply with the important duty to make reasonable adjustments and subjecting disabled people to disability-related harassment.

There are programmes available through the Department for Communities to support people into and to sustain work and these can be put in place for any eligible apprentice. See work schemes and programmes for people with disabilities

If additional support is needed for your apprentice during their time on directed training, for example, if they have a disability, your training contractor/provider will organise this for you with specially trained support providers. They will work closely together on behalf of your apprentice so that he or she can benefit fully from the training programme.

More Useful links

• Download the apprenticeships employer advice leaflet (PDF, 2.77MB)
• Advertise your apprenticeship opportunities on JobApplyNI

An apprenticeship can give your employees the training and qualifications they need to meet your business needs. The qualifications for Level 2 and Level 3 apprenticeships are set out in a frameworks, which have been developed in liaison with industry representatives to ensure they are tailored to meet the needs of your business sector.

Level 2 and 3 Apprenticeships

The ApprenticeshipsNI programme offers three possible apprenticeship routes: either a standalone Level 2 apprenticeship framework, or a standalone Level 3 apprenticeship framework, or a combination of both levels known as a "Level 3 with a Level 2 En Route" apprenticeship.

The framework level your apprentice will undertake depends on a range of factors including their previous experience, their current level of skills, previous qualifications they have achieved, and of course the level of development they require to competently fulfil their new role in your business.

As part of their apprenticeship your apprentice will be supported and trained by a training contractor or FE College who has been approved by DfE to deliver ApprenticeshipsNI training in that occupational area. A useful search tool is available to help you find a suitable training contractor:

• Search for Level 2 and Level 3 ApprenticeshipsNI training contractors

The training contractor will assess your apprentice's level of skills and qualifications when they register them on the programme and will advise what framework level they judge is the most appropriate for your apprentice to begin at.

Your training contractor or FE college will discuss the apprentice's level of qualification and skills and suggest the level of entry to the programme.

• Level 2 apprenticeship frameworks
• Level 3 apprenticeship frameworks
• Apprenticeships explained for employers

The apprenticeship framework

An ApprenticeshipsNI framework sets out the requirements your apprentice must meet to achieve their Full Framework ApprenticeshipsNI Certificate at that level.

All frameworks include a knowledge-based qualification, a competency-based qualification, Essential Skills requirements, and any other qualification deemed mandatory by the industry for example the AM2 Test for electrotechnical industry.

A small number of frameworks have additional requirements such as previous qualifications or experience but these are clearly outlined where applicable.

Your training contractor will ensure that your apprentice is registered for the appropriate qualifications and supported appropriately to complete the requirements of the framework in full.

There are around 60 Level 2 ApprenticeshipsNI frameworks and around 60 Level 3 ApprenticeshipsNI frameworks currently available.

If the apprenticeship you wish to offer is not included in the list of current frameworks linked to above, then it is unfortunately not currently available through the ApprenticeshipsNI programme. There may be further apprenticeships frameworks added in the future.

Higher Level Apprenticeships

Higher Level Apprenticeships currently offer qualifications from Level 4 up to Level 7. The majority are at Level 5 (Foundation Degree or equivalent) with some offering Level 6 (Honours Degree) and Level 7 (Masters Degree).

The qualifications required will depend on the level of apprenticeship being followed. Some apprenticeships require, for example, a General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSEs) in order to be eligible to undertake the apprenticeship.

There are currently over 70 Higher Level Apprenticeships programmes to choose from, including childcare, computer science, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, life sciences, hospitality and tourism, and accountancy.

For some, there are minimum entry requirements, for example, A levels. Your chosen training provider can advise you and your apprentice on this.

How long does it take to complete an apprenticeship?

It usually takes up to two years to complete one level and up to four years to complete the two levels at Levels 2 and 3 depending on their complexity; however, they may be completed more quickly depending on the ability of the apprentice.

Higher Level Apprenticeships may vary depending on their complexity however, they should normally take a minimum of two years to complete.

Framework provision is subject to confirmation.

More useful links

• Download the apprenticeships employer advice leaflet (PDF, 2.77MB)
• Advertise your apprenticeship opportunities on JobApplyNI

Funding for the directed (or "off-the-job") training element of Level 2, Level 3 apprenticeships, and Level 4 and Level 5 Higher Level Apprenticeships is provided by the Department for the Economy (DfE).

An Employer Incentive Payment is also available to employers whose employees successfully complete their Level 2 and/or Level 3 Apprenticeship framework. Employers must contract apprentices to work at least 21 hours per week (to include day release for directed training) and are responsible for paying their apprentices at least the National Minimum Wage rate for apprentices.

How much does training cost?

The costs of the directed ('off-the-job') training element of the apprenticeship are funded by DfE.

Higher level Apprenticeships

The Department for the Economy (DfE) will pay training provider costs for the off-the-job training, however, the employer should pay the apprentice for the contracted hours including the day that they are training.

Employer Incentive Payments

Under the ApprenticeshipsNI programme an Employer Incentive Payment is available for employers whose apprentice successfully completes their full Level 2 or Level 3 apprenticeships framework. This incentive ranges from £670 to £2,008, depending on the complexity and level of the apprenticeship undertaken and the age of the apprentice on joining the programme. You will receive the payment upon the successful completion of your employee's apprenticeship framework.

What do I pay the apprentice?

Your apprentice will earn a wage agreed between you and them. It is important to remember that the National Minimum Wage (NMW) Regulations apply and that there are specific rates for apprentices and for different age groups.

The NMW is the minimum amount that workers in the UK are entitled to be paid. NMW rates are reviewed each year.

National Minimum Wage rates for 2026-27

• £12.71 - the National Living Wage for workers 21 years old and over
• £10.85 - the 18 to 20 years old rate
• £8.00 - the 16 to 17 years old rate for workers above school leaving age but under 18 years old
• £8.00 - the apprentice rate, for apprentices under 19 years old or 19 and over and in the first year of their apprenticeship (this rate does not apply to Higher Level Apprenticeships)

See National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage rates.

More useful links

• Download the apprenticeships employer advice leaflet (PDF, 2.77MB)
• Advertise your apprenticeship opportunities on JobApplyNI
• Higher Level Apprenticeships Training Suppliers on the nidirect website
• Find your local Jobs and Benefits Office on the nidirect website
• Apprenticeship training contractors

Apprenticeships can help all types of businesses across a wide range of sectors harness fresh new talent. They can help equip your workforce with the practical skills and qualifications that your organisation needs now and in the future and you will enjoy the benefits of having a loyal and motivated workforce that you have trained to meet your own specific business requirements.

Many employers have reported that by employing apprentices they have seen growth and improvement in productivity in their business. As well as this, they feel a real sense of contributing to the skills needs of the Northern Ireland economy.

What are the benefits of employing an apprentice?

There are many benefits to you in employing an apprentice:

• the full costs of the directed (off-the-job) training element of the apprenticeship are funded by the Department for the Economy (DfE).
• an Employer Incentive Payment is available to employers when their apprentice achieves all the targeted qualifications on their Level 2 or Level 3 apprenticeship framework, ranging from £670 to £2,008 (depending on the complexity and level of the apprenticeship undertaken and the age of the apprentice on joining the programme) (note: the employer incentive does not apply to Higher Level Apprenticeships)
• the DfE funded training and reduced National Minimum Wage rate for apprentices (not HLAs) means it is more cost-effective to employ an apprentice rather than skilled staff, plus you can train them right from the start to use the tried and tested methods that work for your individual business
• you benefit from increased enthusiasm, motivation, and loyalty as your apprentice has sought out this career path
• the mixture of on and off-the-job training means your apprentice benefits from experienced staff who know how your business works, while also developing new skills and the latest techniques from qualified trainers by developing your staff to their full potential you can realise increased productivity, improved competitiveness, and a competent workforce
• apprentices can help fill skills gaps by developing the specialist skills that you require for your business and can help you and your business keep abreast of new technology

Sounds good in theory but does it work in real life?

Many Northern Ireland companies have successfully trained apprentices through the ApprenticeshipsNI and Higher Level Apprenticeship programmes and their businesses have reaped the benefits. Read their stories at:

• Company testimonies for apprenticeships

Advertise apprenticeship opportunities online

Now you appreciate the benefits apprenticeships can bring to your business, why not advertise your first apprentice vacancy online? JobApplyNI is a free website developed by the Department for Communities that enables employers to promote and advertise apprenticeship opportunities.

• JobApplyNI: advertise apprenticeship opportunities online.

More useful links

• Download the apprenticeships employer advice leaflet (PDF, 2.77MB)

Many Northern Ireland companies have successfully trained their apprentices through the Apprenticeships programme and their businesses have reaped the benefits. Find out more below.

Kainos

Paul Hamill, Head of HR said:

'Kainos has provided young people through the Apprenticeships programme with the opportunity to develop skills, achieve qualifications and enhance their career prospects in a stimulating IT environment.

The programme has helped us train and develop the apprentices we need for the long-term success of our business. Our apprentices add to our organisation making it more effective, competent, and competitive by addressing our skills gaps directly.'

Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE)

Joe O'Mahony, NIE Managing Director, said:

Many of our apprentices have attained additional skills, over and above their normal job roles. This has led to a multi-skilled workforce enabling NIE to improve productivity and business efficiency, meet government and regulatory targets, and deliver business benefits to the company.

A number of our senior managers started their career as apprentices proving that an apprenticeship provides an excellent platform for individuals to develop their career to the maximum potential."

Fusion Heating Ltd

Bill Cherry, Manager Director said:

'As a Small, Medium Enterprise business we need to be able to exploit all market sectors, and our apprentices, working through the Apprenticeships programme, are a vital part of the team in this regard.'

Phoenix Gas

Peter Dixon, Group Chief Executive, Phoenix Energy Holdings said:

'The Apprenticeships programme has helped us train and develop the apprentices we need for the long-term success of our business. Our apprentices add to our organisation making it more effective, competent, productive, and competitive by addressing our skills gaps directly.'

PwC NI

Paul Terrington, Regional Chairman of PwC in Northern Ireland said:

'In 2012, we took the lead in piloting the Professional Services Higher Level Apprenticeships alongside our more usual graduate recruitment and the results have been remarkably successful. The standard of applicants has been high and they have excelled in a challenging and demanding work environment, so we are now accelerating our Higher Apprenticeship recruitment through our school-leaver entry programme. Apprentices earn while they learn, gain an internationally recognised professional qualification in less time than it takes to graduate from university, and have a lifetime career opportunity within the global PwC network.'

How do I go about employing an apprentice for my business?

Now you've read real examples of apprenticeships benefiting real businesses here in Northern Ireland, why not get started on recruiting your own apprentice? Find out more at the following links:

• Getting an apprentice started
• JobApplyNI: advertise apprenticeship opportunities online

More useful links

• Download the apprenticeships employer advice leaflet (PDF, 2.77MB)

You may already have a potential apprentice in mind or in your workforce. If not there are various methods of finding one.

Finding an apprentice

If you don't have a potential apprentice but would like to employ one, it is really like recruiting any other employee. For example you can:

• advertise apprenticeship opportunities on JobApplyNI
• contact your local Jobs and Benefits Office
• place an advertisement in the newspapers
• contact a training contractor/provider in your area who delivers training in the relevant occupational area, as they may be aware of potential employees
• look to your own staff - an existing employee is eligible for the ApprenticeshipsNI or Higher Level Apprenticeship programme if their new role requires substantial training and development

Advertise apprenticeship opportunities online

JobApplyNI is a free website developed by the Department for Communities that enables employers to promote and advertise apprenticeship opportunities.

• Advertise apprenticeship opportunities on JobApplyNI.

You have your apprentice, what next?

Once you have identified your apprentice and they have agreed to take part in one of the Apprenticeship programmes, simply contact an ApprenticeshipsNI contractor or a Higher Level Apprenticeship training provider who has been approved to deliver the relevant apprenticeship training in your area.

The training contractor/provider will meet with you and your apprentice to discuss their training needs and will then develop a personal training programme. They will register your apprentice on the programme and ensure they are registered for any qualifications required as part of their framework. They will be with your apprentice every step of the way throughout the apprenticeship to support them and ensure they are making progress.

A useful search facility is available on the nidirect website to find a suitable training contractor in your local area to deliver Level 2 and Level 3 ApprenticeshipsNI training:

• Search for Level 2 and Level 3 ApprenticeshipsNI training contractors

A list of training providers for Higher Level Apprenticeships is also available on the nidirect website:

• Higher Level Apprenticeships training providers

Is additional support needed?

If additional support is needed for your apprentice during their time on the directed training element of the programme. As the apprentices are in employment when they start on the programme the Disability Discrimination Act applies making it illegal for employers to subject disabled job-seekers and employees to disability discrimination. This includes failing to comply with the important duty to make reasonable adjustments and subjecting disabled people to disability-related harassment.

There are programmes available through the Department for Communities to support people into and to sustain work and these can be put in place for any eligible apprentice. See work schemes and programmes for people with disabilities.

For example, if they have a disability, your training contractor will organise this for you with one of the specially trained Disability Support Services (DSS) contractors approved by DfE. A list of the current DSS contractors is available on the following page:

• Apprenticeships explained for employers

Other options

If Apprenticeships are not suitable for your business, why not check out some other employment and training programmes, such as:

• Skills for Life and Work: providing work experience for young people
• How to access a traineeship for employers

More useful links

• Download the apprenticeships employer advice leaflet (PDF, 2.77MB)

Employing apprentices can bring many benefits to your business. Apprenticeships can be a valuable strategy for businesses aiming to innovate, upskill, and maintain a competitive advantage.

Five benefits of recruiting apprentices

The top five benefits of taking on an apprentice are:

1. Develop skills that your business needs

Apprenticeships allow you to train individuals specifically for the skills your business requires, helping to fill critical skills gaps. This ensures that skills are well-aligned with your business goals, providing relevant, up-to-date expertise that experienced hires may lack.

2. Access fresh knowledge

Apprentices enable you to tap into a talent pool that offers fresh knowledge on emerging areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and data analysis.

3. Increase productivity

Apprentices gain hands-on experience and learn your business processes and systems, enabling them to contribute effectively in a relatively short time. Apprentices often contribute new approaches and energy that encourage innovation and improved team efficiency.

4. Cost-effective workforce development

Apprenticeships often come with government financial support. This reduces recruitment and training costs while building a motivated and skilled workforce. See finances and funding for apprenticeships.

5. Boost employee morale and retention

Apprenticeships foster a culture of learning and offer staff opportunities to mentor, which can improve morale, loyalty, and reduce staff turnover.

See further details on getting an apprentice started.

ApprenticeshipsNI is a work-based programme designed around the needs of employers that offers recognised training and qualifications to new and existing employees taking on new roles that require lots of training and development. The programme offers a wide range of apprenticeships at Level 2 and Level 3.

• Level 2 apprenticeship frameworks
• Level 3 apprenticeship frameworks

Opportunities are also available through Higher Level Apprenticeships for new employees or existing employees in a new job role wishing to gain qualifications from Level 4 to Level 7.

Who is eligible to take part in Apprenticeships?

Apprenticeships are open to new employees or existing employees taking on a new role within a Northern Ireland-based company.

Your apprentice needs to:

• be the minimum school leaving age in Northern Ireland
• be about to take up permanent paid employment as an apprentice with a Northern Ireland-based company, or be an existing employee in a Northern Ireland-based company who is about to undertake a new role that requires significant training and development
• employed by national companies that have operations in Northern Ireland who are employed at least 50% of their time in Northern Ireland and completing their directed training in Northern Ireland with an approved training contractor
• be permanently contracted to work a minimum of 21 hours per week (which includes time for 'off-the-job' training)
• meet the entry requirements of their chosen occupation; some apprenticeships require, for example, General Certificates of Secondary Education (GCSEs)

Your Higher Level Apprentice needs to, as a minimum:

• be employed or be about to take up permanent paid employment as an apprentice, or be an existing employee moving to a new job role, with a Northern Ireland-based company
• work a minimum of 21 hours per week (which includes time for ‘off-the-job’ training)
• have achieved all necessary entry qualifications determined by the relevant sector
• pass any entry tests specified by the relevant sector
• be the minimum school leaving age in Northern Ireland

Third-country nationals, including European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), and Swiss nationals, are eligible to undertake a Higher Level Apprenticeship/Level 2 or 3 Apprenticeship if they already have a right to live and work in the UK.

Legal responsibility for establishing that the apprentice has a right to live and work in the UK rests with the employer. See further guidance on working in Northern Ireland.

Apprenticeship training

An apprenticeship is a work-based training programme, most of the training is 'on-the-job' with you as the employer. This is usually four days a week. The rest is provided 'off-the-job', one day a week.

All of the Level 2 and Level 3 apprenticeship qualifications are set out in a framework and are available at Levels 2 and 3. They have been developed in liaison with industry representatives and are therefore tailored to ensure they meet the needs of your industry. Further information is available at:

• Apprenticeships qualifications explained for employers
• Getting an apprentice started

What is a training contractor/provider?

A number of training contractors including the six local further education colleges and College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) based across Northern Ireland have been contracted to deliver training in a variety of apprenticeships at Level 2 and Level 3. There are around 100 Level 2 or Level 3 apprenticeship frameworks to choose from.

Higher Level Apprenticeships are delivered through the six local further education colleges, the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE), and the three local universities. There are over 70 Higher Level Apprenticeships programmes available.

A training contractor/provider will help your apprentice achieve the qualifications and teach them the knowledge and skills to complement what they learn from you.

The training contractor/provider will meet with you and your apprentice to discuss their training needs and will then develop a training programme with them. They will be with your apprentice every step of the way throughout the apprenticeship to support them and ensure that are making progress.

The following links provide a tool to search for training contractors for Level 2 and Level 3 ApprenticeshipsNI frameworks, and a list of Higher Level Apprenticeships training providers including contact details and training offered in your area.

• Search for ApprenticeshipsNI Level 2 and Level 3 training contractors
• Higher Level Apprenticeships training providers on the nidirect website

What if your apprentice needs additional support?

As the apprentices are in employment when they start on the programme the Disability Discrimination Act applies making it illegal for employers to subject disabled job seekers and employees to disability discrimination. This includes failing to comply with the important duty to make reasonable adjustments and subjecting disabled people to disability-related harassment.

There are programmes available through the Department for Communities to support people into and to sustain work and these can be put in place for any eligible apprentice. See work schemes and programmes for people with disabilities

If additional support is needed for your apprentice during their time on directed training, for example, if they have a disability, your training contractor/provider will organise this for you with specially trained support providers. They will work closely together on behalf of your apprentice so that he or she can benefit fully from the training programme.

More Useful links

• Download the apprenticeships employer advice leaflet (PDF, 2.77MB)
• Advertise your apprenticeship opportunities on JobApplyNI

An apprenticeship can give your employees the training and qualifications they need to meet your business needs. The qualifications for Level 2 and Level 3 apprenticeships are set out in a frameworks, which have been developed in liaison with industry representatives to ensure they are tailored to meet the needs of your business sector.

Level 2 and 3 Apprenticeships

The ApprenticeshipsNI programme offers three possible apprenticeship routes: either a standalone Level 2 apprenticeship framework, or a standalone Level 3 apprenticeship framework, or a combination of both levels known as a "Level 3 with a Level 2 En Route" apprenticeship.

The framework level your apprentice will undertake depends on a range of factors including their previous experience, their current level of skills, previous qualifications they have achieved, and of course the level of development they require to competently fulfil their new role in your business.

As part of their apprenticeship your apprentice will be supported and trained by a training contractor or FE College who has been approved by DfE to deliver ApprenticeshipsNI training in that occupational area. A useful search tool is available to help you find a suitable training contractor:

• Search for Level 2 and Level 3 ApprenticeshipsNI training contractors

The training contractor will assess your apprentice's level of skills and qualifications when they register them on the programme and will advise what framework level they judge is the most appropriate for your apprentice to begin at.

Your training contractor or FE college will discuss the apprentice's level of qualification and skills and suggest the level of entry to the programme.

• Level 2 apprenticeship frameworks
• Level 3 apprenticeship frameworks
• Apprenticeships explained for employers

The apprenticeship framework

An ApprenticeshipsNI framework sets out the requirements your apprentice must meet to achieve their Full Framework ApprenticeshipsNI Certificate at that level.

All frameworks include a knowledge-based qualification, a competency-based qualification, Essential Skills requirements, and any other qualification deemed mandatory by the industry for example the AM2 Test for electrotechnical industry.

A small number of frameworks have additional requirements such as previous qualifications or experience but these are clearly outlined where applicable.

Your training contractor will ensure that your apprentice is registered for the appropriate qualifications and supported appropriately to complete the requirements of the framework in full.

There are around 60 Level 2 ApprenticeshipsNI frameworks and around 60 Level 3 ApprenticeshipsNI frameworks currently available.

If the apprenticeship you wish to offer is not included in the list of current frameworks linked to above, then it is unfortunately not currently available through the ApprenticeshipsNI programme. There may be further apprenticeships frameworks added in the future.

Higher Level Apprenticeships

Higher Level Apprenticeships currently offer qualifications from Level 4 up to Level 7. The majority are at Level 5 (Foundation Degree or equivalent) with some offering Level 6 (Honours Degree) and Level 7 (Masters Degree).

The qualifications required will depend on the level of apprenticeship being followed. Some apprenticeships require, for example, a General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSEs) in order to be eligible to undertake the apprenticeship.

There are currently over 70 Higher Level Apprenticeships programmes to choose from, including childcare, computer science, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, life sciences, hospitality and tourism, and accountancy.

For some, there are minimum entry requirements, for example, A levels. Your chosen training provider can advise you and your apprentice on this.

How long does it take to complete an apprenticeship?

It usually takes up to two years to complete one level and up to four years to complete the two levels at Levels 2 and 3 depending on their complexity; however, they may be completed more quickly depending on the ability of the apprentice.

Higher Level Apprenticeships may vary depending on their complexity however, they should normally take a minimum of two years to complete.

Framework provision is subject to confirmation.

More useful links

• Download the apprenticeships employer advice leaflet (PDF, 2.77MB)
• Advertise your apprenticeship opportunities on JobApplyNI

Funding for the directed (or "off-the-job") training element of Level 2, Level 3 apprenticeships, and Level 4 and Level 5 Higher Level Apprenticeships is provided by the Department for the Economy (DfE).

An Employer Incentive Payment is also available to employers whose employees successfully complete their Level 2 and/or Level 3 Apprenticeship framework. Employers must contract apprentices to work at least 21 hours per week (to include day release for directed training) and are responsible for paying their apprentices at least the National Minimum Wage rate for apprentices.

How much does training cost?

The costs of the directed ('off-the-job') training element of the apprenticeship are funded by DfE.

Higher level Apprenticeships

The Department for the Economy (DfE) will pay training provider costs for the off-the-job training, however, the employer should pay the apprentice for the contracted hours including the day that they are training.

Employer Incentive Payments

Under the ApprenticeshipsNI programme an Employer Incentive Payment is available for employers whose apprentice successfully completes their full Level 2 or Level 3 apprenticeships framework. This incentive ranges from £670 to £2,008, depending on the complexity and level of the apprenticeship undertaken and the age of the apprentice on joining the programme. You will receive the payment upon the successful completion of your employee's apprenticeship framework.

What do I pay the apprentice?

Your apprentice will earn a wage agreed between you and them. It is important to remember that the National Minimum Wage (NMW) Regulations apply and that there are specific rates for apprentices and for different age groups.

The NMW is the minimum amount that workers in the UK are entitled to be paid. NMW rates are reviewed each year.

National Minimum Wage rates for 2026-27

• £12.71 - the National Living Wage for workers 21 years old and over
• £10.85 - the 18 to 20 years old rate
• £8.00 - the 16 to 17 years old rate for workers above school leaving age but under 18 years old
• £8.00 - the apprentice rate, for apprentices under 19 years old or 19 and over and in the first year of their apprenticeship (this rate does not apply to Higher Level Apprenticeships)

See National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage rates.

More useful links

• Download the apprenticeships employer advice leaflet (PDF, 2.77MB)
• Advertise your apprenticeship opportunities on JobApplyNI
• Higher Level Apprenticeships Training Suppliers on the nidirect website
• Find your local Jobs and Benefits Office on the nidirect website
• Apprenticeship training contractors

Apprenticeships can help all types of businesses across a wide range of sectors harness fresh new talent. They can help equip your workforce with the practical skills and qualifications that your organisation needs now and in the future and you will enjoy the benefits of having a loyal and motivated workforce that you have trained to meet your own specific business requirements.

Many employers have reported that by employing apprentices they have seen growth and improvement in productivity in their business. As well as this, they feel a real sense of contributing to the skills needs of the Northern Ireland economy.

What are the benefits of employing an apprentice?

There are many benefits to you in employing an apprentice:

• the full costs of the directed (off-the-job) training element of the apprenticeship are funded by the Department for the Economy (DfE).
• an Employer Incentive Payment is available to employers when their apprentice achieves all the targeted qualifications on their Level 2 or Level 3 apprenticeship framework, ranging from £670 to £2,008 (depending on the complexity and level of the apprenticeship undertaken and the age of the apprentice on joining the programme) (note: the employer incentive does not apply to Higher Level Apprenticeships)
• the DfE funded training and reduced National Minimum Wage rate for apprentices (not HLAs) means it is more cost-effective to employ an apprentice rather than skilled staff, plus you can train them right from the start to use the tried and tested methods that work for your individual business
• you benefit from increased enthusiasm, motivation, and loyalty as your apprentice has sought out this career path
• the mixture of on and off-the-job training means your apprentice benefits from experienced staff who know how your business works, while also developing new skills and the latest techniques from qualified trainers by developing your staff to their full potential you can realise increased productivity, improved competitiveness, and a competent workforce
• apprentices can help fill skills gaps by developing the specialist skills that you require for your business and can help you and your business keep abreast of new technology

Sounds good in theory but does it work in real life?

Many Northern Ireland companies have successfully trained apprentices through the ApprenticeshipsNI and Higher Level Apprenticeship programmes and their businesses have reaped the benefits. Read their stories at:

• Company testimonies for apprenticeships

Advertise apprenticeship opportunities online

Now you appreciate the benefits apprenticeships can bring to your business, why not advertise your first apprentice vacancy online? JobApplyNI is a free website developed by the Department for Communities that enables employers to promote and advertise apprenticeship opportunities.

• JobApplyNI: advertise apprenticeship opportunities online.

More useful links

• Download the apprenticeships employer advice leaflet (PDF, 2.77MB)

Many Northern Ireland companies have successfully trained their apprentices through the Apprenticeships programme and their businesses have reaped the benefits. Find out more below.

Kainos

Paul Hamill, Head of HR said:

'Kainos has provided young people through the Apprenticeships programme with the opportunity to develop skills, achieve qualifications and enhance their career prospects in a stimulating IT environment.

The programme has helped us train and develop the apprentices we need for the long-term success of our business. Our apprentices add to our organisation making it more effective, competent, and competitive by addressing our skills gaps directly.'

Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE)

Joe O'Mahony, NIE Managing Director, said:

Many of our apprentices have attained additional skills, over and above their normal job roles. This has led to a multi-skilled workforce enabling NIE to improve productivity and business efficiency, meet government and regulatory targets, and deliver business benefits to the company.

A number of our senior managers started their career as apprentices proving that an apprenticeship provides an excellent platform for individuals to develop their career to the maximum potential."

Fusion Heating Ltd

Bill Cherry, Manager Director said:

'As a Small, Medium Enterprise business we need to be able to exploit all market sectors, and our apprentices, working through the Apprenticeships programme, are a vital part of the team in this regard.'

Phoenix Gas

Peter Dixon, Group Chief Executive, Phoenix Energy Holdings said:

'The Apprenticeships programme has helped us train and develop the apprentices we need for the long-term success of our business. Our apprentices add to our organisation making it more effective, competent, productive, and competitive by addressing our skills gaps directly.'

PwC NI

Paul Terrington, Regional Chairman of PwC in Northern Ireland said:

'In 2012, we took the lead in piloting the Professional Services Higher Level Apprenticeships alongside our more usual graduate recruitment and the results have been remarkably successful. The standard of applicants has been high and they have excelled in a challenging and demanding work environment, so we are now accelerating our Higher Apprenticeship recruitment through our school-leaver entry programme. Apprentices earn while they learn, gain an internationally recognised professional qualification in less time than it takes to graduate from university, and have a lifetime career opportunity within the global PwC network.'

How do I go about employing an apprentice for my business?

Now you've read real examples of apprenticeships benefiting real businesses here in Northern Ireland, why not get started on recruiting your own apprentice? Find out more at the following links:

• Getting an apprentice started
• JobApplyNI: advertise apprenticeship opportunities online

More useful links

• Download the apprenticeships employer advice leaflet (PDF, 2.77MB)

You may already have a potential apprentice in mind or in your workforce. If not there are various methods of finding one.

Finding an apprentice

If you don't have a potential apprentice but would like to employ one, it is really like recruiting any other employee. For example you can:

• advertise apprenticeship opportunities on JobApplyNI
• contact your local Jobs and Benefits Office
• place an advertisement in the newspapers
• contact a training contractor/provider in your area who delivers training in the relevant occupational area, as they may be aware of potential employees
• look to your own staff - an existing employee is eligible for the ApprenticeshipsNI or Higher Level Apprenticeship programme if their new role requires substantial training and development

Advertise apprenticeship opportunities online

JobApplyNI is a free website developed by the Department for Communities that enables employers to promote and advertise apprenticeship opportunities.

• Advertise apprenticeship opportunities on JobApplyNI.

You have your apprentice, what next?

Once you have identified your apprentice and they have agreed to take part in one of the Apprenticeship programmes, simply contact an ApprenticeshipsNI contractor or a Higher Level Apprenticeship training provider who has been approved to deliver the relevant apprenticeship training in your area.

The training contractor/provider will meet with you and your apprentice to discuss their training needs and will then develop a personal training programme. They will register your apprentice on the programme and ensure they are registered for any qualifications required as part of their framework. They will be with your apprentice every step of the way throughout the apprenticeship to support them and ensure they are making progress.

A useful search facility is available on the nidirect website to find a suitable training contractor in your local area to deliver Level 2 and Level 3 ApprenticeshipsNI training:

• Search for Level 2 and Level 3 ApprenticeshipsNI training contractors

A list of training providers for Higher Level Apprenticeships is also available on the nidirect website:

• Higher Level Apprenticeships training providers

Is additional support needed?

If additional support is needed for your apprentice during their time on the directed training element of the programme. As the apprentices are in employment when they start on the programme the Disability Discrimination Act applies making it illegal for employers to subject disabled job-seekers and employees to disability discrimination. This includes failing to comply with the important duty to make reasonable adjustments and subjecting disabled people to disability-related harassment.

There are programmes available through the Department for Communities to support people into and to sustain work and these can be put in place for any eligible apprentice. See work schemes and programmes for people with disabilities.

For example, if they have a disability, your training contractor will organise this for you with one of the specially trained Disability Support Services (DSS) contractors approved by DfE. A list of the current DSS contractors is available on the following page:

• Apprenticeships explained for employers

Other options

If Apprenticeships are not suitable for your business, why not check out some other employment and training programmes, such as:

• Skills for Life and Work: providing work experience for young people
• How to access a traineeship for employers

More useful links

• Download the apprenticeships employer advice leaflet (PDF, 2.77MB)

Employing apprentices can bring many benefits to your business. Apprenticeships can be a valuable strategy for businesses aiming to innovate, upskill, and maintain a competitive advantage.

Five benefits of recruiting apprentices

The top five benefits of taking on an apprentice are:

1. Develop skills that your business needs

Apprenticeships allow you to train individuals specifically for the skills your business requires, helping to fill critical skills gaps. This ensures that skills are well-aligned with your business goals, providing relevant, up-to-date expertise that experienced hires may lack.

2. Access fresh knowledge

Apprentices enable you to tap into a talent pool that offers fresh knowledge on emerging areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and data analysis.

3. Increase productivity

Apprentices gain hands-on experience and learn your business processes and systems, enabling them to contribute effectively in a relatively short time. Apprentices often contribute new approaches and energy that encourage innovation and improved team efficiency.

4. Cost-effective workforce development

Apprenticeships often come with government financial support. This reduces recruitment and training costs while building a motivated and skilled workforce. See finances and funding for apprenticeships.

5. Boost employee morale and retention

Apprenticeships foster a culture of learning and offer staff opportunities to mentor, which can improve morale, loyalty, and reduce staff turnover.

See further details on getting an apprentice started.