Steadfast Training

Key Facts

Frequently Asked Questions

Please click on the questions below to reveal the answer.

Apprenticeships refer to on-the-job training leading to nationally recognised qualifications. They are relevant to your job role and are completed in the workplace.

How is learning completed in an Apprenticeship?

All training will take place in the work place. One of our specialist assessors will visit you and guide you through the course.

How long does an Apprenticeship take?

The length depends on the subject and the learner. The average Apprenticeship lasts between 6 to 12 months.

Who are Apprenticeships for?

Apprenticeships are open to all age groups whether they are just leaving school, have been working for years or are seeking to start a new career.

Can existing staff undertake an Apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships are a great vocational training option that will ensure your existing employees help develop productivity in the work place. Current employees can complete an Apprenticeship, they would continue on their current wage.

How much will I earn?

The minimum wage for an apprentice is £2.60 an hour.

How is my work assessed?

We have a team of qualified Assessors who collect evidence of competence by building a portfolio. We use a variety of methods to assess and collect evidence: observation of the learner at work, discussions based on tasks done and collection of work-based products and assignments set in conjunction with the employer. Many of these are collected using voice recordings, photographs and personal statements.

What are the benefits of an Apprentice to the employer?

Earlier research, conducted by Populus on behalf of the Skills Funding Agency during the first National Apprenticeship Week revealed:

77% of employers believe Apprenticeships make them more competitive;
76% say that Apprenticeships provide higher overall productivity;
80% feel that Apprenticeships reduce staff turnover;
83% of employers rely on their Apprenticeship programmes to provide the skilled workers that they need for the future;
Two-thirds of respondents believe that their Apprenticeship programme helps them fill vacancies more quickly, whilst
88% believe that Apprenticeships lead to a more motivated and satisfied workforce;
59% report that training Apprentices is more cost-effective than hiring skilled staff, with 59% believing that Apprenticeships lead to lower overall training costs and 53% feeling that they reduce recruitment costs;
57% report a high proportion of their Apprentices going on to management positions within the company;
Over three-quarters of respondents expect Apprenticeships to play a bigger part in their recruitment policy in the future.

What are the advantages of an Apprenticeship to the learner?

Apart from earning a real wage and achieving additional qualifications, Steadfast Training offers a great Service to help you explore and determine your future.

How do I get become an Apprentice?

If you need more information or would like to apply contact Steadfast Training.

What are my rights as an Apprentice?

For detailed information about your rights as an Apprentice please visit the following website : http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/EducationAndLearning/14To19/OptionsAt16/DG_4001327

How do I get an Apprentice for my Business?

If you are interested in employing an Apprentice please contact Steadfast Training who will guide you through the steps.

Is funding available for Training?

Steadfast Training is a major provider of Government funded training programmes to support large and small employers. We will ensure that maximum funding support is obtained for all programmes delivered. We are directly contracted with the Skills Funding Agency and the National Apprenticeship Service for Apprenticeships, Train to Gain and other core funding routes. We can also help you with applications to the Local Education Authorities if needed.

What is IAG?

Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) is a broad term describing the support needed by learners.

What is QCF?

The QCF is the new way of recognising achievement - through the award of credit for units and qualifications - across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. It setsout how all regulated vocational qualifications are structured, titled and quality assured. It is replacing the existing National Qualifications Framework.

What is an e-portfolio?

An e-portfolio is a collection of work developed across varied contexts over time and stored on line. For more information on e-portfolios please visit : http://www.learningassistant.com/