How do apprenticeships work in the Devolved Nations?

Understanding apprenticeship frameworks 

The apprenticeship standards that are used in England don't apply in the devolved nation; instead, devolved nation have their own system for apprenticeship frameworks and funding. These frameworks outline the skills and knowledge apprentices gain throughout the programme. 

Key differences of apprenticeships across the devolved nations: 

• Programme design and funding: each nation has its own approach to programme design and eligibility for funding. the amount of funding available also varies. 

• Learner eligibility: the criteria for who can participate as an apprentice differs across the nations. 

• Programme delivery: the way apprenticeship programmes are delivered varies between Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. 

• Quality assurance: the arrangements for inspecting and ensuring programme quality differ across the nations. 

Working with partners in the devolved nations 

Lifetime do not directly deliver apprenticeship programmes in the devolved nations, but we can still support employers by connecting them with trusted partners. 

1. Scotland: We work with Skills Development Scotland (SDS) to help employers access programmes aligned with funding rules. 

1. Wales: Employers can access apprenticeship programmes through our partner, Cambrian Training Company (CTC). 

1. Northern Ireland: Belfast Met is our partner for delivering apprenticeship programmes. 

Sample apprenticeship programmes by region 

This section provides a brief overview of some sample programmes available in each devolved nation (this is not an exhaustive list):