When it comes to apprenticeship programmes, one of the questions that both employers and candidates have is: How long do apprenticeships last? The answer depends on several key factors, including the individual’s starting point, the apprenticeship level and the training provider’s delivery approach.
At Damar Training, we’re truly passionate about the impact of apprentices on your organisation. In this blog, we’ll offer some clarity on the length of apprenticeships by breaking down the various elements that determine how long it will last.
How long do apprenticeships usually last?
There is no one definitive answer to the question: How long do apprenticeships last? This is because there are many types of apprenticeships available, each one with varying degrees of complexity in terms of the knowledge, skills and behaviours that must be developed. The only legal requirement set by the government is that apprenticeships must last a minimum of eight months.
But apprenticeships can take anywhere from eight months to six years to complete. Apprenticeships that take longer are usually degree equivalent and are for senior leadership or highly technical roles.
Apprenticeship levels
One of the most significant factors that can influence apprenticeship length is the qualification level. Apprenticeships range from level 2 to 7, and generally, higher-level apprenticeships require longer durations. Here are the levels and how long they typically last:
- Foundation level: 8+ months
- Intermediate apprenticeships (level 2): 12 to 18 months
- Advanced apprenticeships (level 3): 18 months to 2 years
- Higher and degree apprenticeships (levels 4 to 7): Up to 5+ years.
Other factors
The same apprenticeship can also vary in length depending on the training provider. Different providers develop their own delivery approaches and training programmes while ensuring they meet the knowledge, skills, and behaviours required by Skills England.
An individual’s existing qualifications and experience can also affect apprenticeship duration. For example, here at Damar, we offer different programme lengths for our solicitor apprenticeship. For those with paralegal apprenticeships or non-law degrees, we offer a longer programme of 35 months. For those with law degrees or graduate diplomas in law, we offer a shorter programme of 18 months.
If an apprentice does not work full-time, it could mean that the length of the apprenticeship needs to be extended in order for them to have enough time during contracted working hours to complete the required off-the-job training.
Finally, apprenticeship length can vary by how quickly the apprentice is able to work through their training plan and required off-the-job hours. Some apprentices are able to allocate more time on a weekly basis to their apprenticeship and, in some cases, this means that the apprentice can complete their programme in a shorter period of time.
What are the benefits of an apprentice?
There are many reasons why you should employ an apprentice or use apprenticeship training to upskill existing employees:
- Saving on recruitment costs: Hiring an apprentice is a cost-effective way of supporting the development of new and in-demand skills in your business
- Increased retention and staff satisfaction: Apprenticeships can support increased retention across the organisation and lead to increases in morale and motivation
- Improve diversification across teams: Apprenticeships can attract a wider range of talent, including those from less academic or socially mobile backgrounds, leading to increased diversity and inclusion
- Address skills shortages: Apprenticeship training is a cost-effective solution to the closing skills gaps, enabling organisations to build their future leaders and specialists from the ground up.
Hear from one of our employer partners about how an apprenticeship from Damar improved their organisation:
Jane Cordner, head of human resources and operations at Blanchards Bailey LLP, said:
“We have been delighted to witness the increase in our apprentices’ knowledge, which they have been able to apply to their work in order to improve their productivity and effectiveness. It has ultimately led us, as a business, to build a strong reputation for investing in our staff and allowed us to attract and retain good quality staff in a competitive recruitment market.”
Read some more of our successful case studies here!
Trust Damar to guide you through a seamless apprenticeship programme
As we can see, the answer to the question about how long apprenticeships last is more complicated than a simple number. It’s a whole journey that is shaped by the apprenticeship standard, the level of qualification, prior learning experience and other individual circumstances.
Ready to explore our apprenticeship opportunities? Then please get in touch with a member of our team today!
Frequently asked questions:
How long do accounting apprenticeships last?
Here at Damar a level 2 accounts/finance assistant apprenticeship lasts 16 months, while a level 3 assistant accountant programme takes 17 months. A level 4 professional accounting technician apprenticeship generally lasts 19 months.
What happens if an apprentice needs a break from their apprenticeship?
If an apprentice needs to take a break from their apprenticeship, there are established procedures to follow to ensure their learning can be paused and resumed appropriately. This is often referred to as a break in learning (BIL) and could be due to medical treatment or long-term sickness, parental leave or other personal reasons.
How can Damar help employees understand the specific duration for apprenticeship needs?
Here at Damar, we’ve got over 40 years of experience in the apprenticeship field. You can rely on us for clear guidance and tailored support. We do this by offering an initial consultation and needs analysis, working with you to match your existing or proposed job roles to the most relevant apprenticeship standards. We’ll be with you every step of the way of your apprenticeship journey.