Funding for employers

Most of the cost is covered. We'll show you how.

Government funding covers most apprenticeship training costs, whether or not your organisation pays the Growth and Skills Levy.

Whether you're recruiting new talent or developing existing employees, apprenticeships are one of the most cost-effective ways to build skills, increase productivity, and invest in your workforce.

At eTraining, we'll help you understand your funding options, identify what support is available to your business, and guide you through the process from start to finish.

employer satisfaction
95
%
employer satisfaction
95
%
who we work with
Supporting the best
Funding explained

Understanding Apprenticeship Funding

Many employers are surprised to learn how affordable apprenticeships can be.

Government funding can significantly reduce the cost of training, allowing organisations to develop new and existing employees while benefiting from nationally recognised qualifications and workplace-focused learning.

Whether you're a small business investing in your team for the first time or a larger organisation looking to maximise your levy funds, we'll help you make the most of the support available.

Which applies to you?

   How does Apprenticeship funding work?

The funding available to your organisation depends on whether you pay the Growth and Skills Levy.
Non-levy employers

Non-levy organisations: annual payroll under £3 million

If your annual payroll is below £3 million, government funding can cover all or most of your apprenticeship training costs.

Depending on eligibility, government funding may contribute up to 95% or more of the training costs, making apprenticeships an affordable and effective way to develop skills within your organisation.

Levy-paying employers

Levy-paying organisations: annual payroll over £3 million

If your annual UK payroll exceeds £3 million, your organisation contributes to the Growth and Skills Levy.

These funds are held within your Apprenticeship Service Account and can be used to pay for apprenticeship training and assessment for both existing employees and new recruits.

We can help you:

Our team will explain exactly what funding is available and support you through every step of the application process.

  • Access and manage your Apprenticeship Service Account
  • Select the right apprenticeship programmes
  • Maximise available levy funds
  • Manage the apprenticeship journey from enrolment to completion
Direct payment

We'll help every step of the way

Some training sits outside apprenticeship funding — short courses, commercial courses, or one-off upskilling. For these, you can pay us directly. Just ask and we'll give you a clear quote and options.

We can help you:

Our team will explain exactly what funding is available and support you through every step of the application process.

  • Access and manage your Apprenticeship Service Account
  • Select the right apprenticeship programmes
  • Maximise available levy funds
  • Manage the apprenticeship journey from enrolment to completion

Let's talk funding

Whether you're exploring apprenticeships for the first time or looking to maximise your existing levy investment, we're here to help.

Get in touch today to discuss your funding options and discover how apprenticeships can help your business grow.

How we can help

We'll help every step of the way

Understanding apprenticeship funding can seem complicated, but it doesn't need to be.

Our experienced team will:

Review your organisation's eligibility

Identify available funding opportunities

Help you access Apprenticeship Service funding

Support programme selection

Manage administration and compliance requirements

Provide ongoing support throughout the apprenticeship

Contact

Let's talk funding

Whether you're exploring apprenticeships for the first time or looking to maximise your existing levy investment, we'rehere to help.

Get in touch today to discuss your funding options and discover how apprenticeships can help your business grow.

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

We believe that design is about more than just aesthetics; it's about solving problems and creating meaningful experiences.

How do I get started as an employer?

Just get in touch for a no-obligation chat. Tell us about the roles and skills you need, and we'll recommend the right programme, sort out the funding, and even help with recruitment if you're taking someone new on.

What sectors and roles do you cover?

We deliver apprenticeships across Business & Administration, Leadership & Management, Customer Service, Health & Social Care and the Children and Young People's workforce — from entry level through to senior leadership. If you're not sure which fits a role, we'll advise.

Will training disrupt my business?

Very little. Most learning happens in the workplace, around the job, with off-the-job study built into the programme. Your apprentice stays productive throughout, and a dedicated skills coach manages the training so you don't have to.

Can I use apprenticeships to train my existing staff?

Absolutely. Apprenticeships aren't just for new recruits — they're one of the best ways to develop the people you already have, from first-line staff into team leaders and managers. As long as the training gives them substantial new skills, existing employees can enrol.

How much will an apprenticeship cost my business?

Less than most employers expect. If you don't pay the apprenticeship levy, the government funds up to 95% of the training cost and you cover a small share. If you are a levy payer, it comes from your levy account. We'll work out exactly what applies and handle the paperwork with you.

Why should my business take on an apprentice?

Apprenticeships help you close skill gaps, lift productivity and build a loyal, capable team — whether you're upskilling the people you already have or bringing in fresh talent. Because the training is shaped around the roles you actually need, it maps straight onto the work.

How do I apply for an apprenticeship?

Get in touch and tell us what you're interested in. We'll talk through the options, help you find a course and employer that fit, and guide you through every step of getting started.

Can an apprenticeship lead to further study or promotion?

Yes. Each level builds on the last, so you can progress from one qualification to the next — and many of our learners move into more senior roles as they go. We'll help you map out where your path could lead.

What support will I get during my course?

You'll have a dedicated tutor or skills coach with you from start to finish — someone to guide you, answer your questions and keep you on track. Our learners consistently tell us this one-to-one support is what makes the difference.

What qualification will I get?

A nationally recognised qualification tied to your job role, from Level 2 right through to degree level. It's proof of real, practical skills that employers value — and a stepping stone to the next level.

Am I too old to do an apprenticeship?

No — there's no upper age limit. Apprenticeships are open to anyone aged 16 or over, whether you're just starting out, changing career, or building on years of experience.

Will I get paid during an apprenticeship?

Yes — an apprenticeship is a real job, so you earn a wage while you learn and gain a nationally recognised qualification at the same time. No student debt, and real experience from day one.

How do I get started?

Just get in touch for a friendly, no-obligation chat. Tell us a little about your goals — or your team's — and we'll recommend the right programme and sort out the funding with you.

Are your qualifications nationally recognised?

Yes. Our qualifications are nationally recognised, and we're an approved, government-funded provider — independently checked against the highest standards, including Ofsted and the Matrix Standard.

How is the training delivered?

Flexibly, around your work and your life. Learning is mostly work-based or online, so apprentices keep earning while they learn and there's minimal disruption for employers. And every learner gets one-to-one support from a dedicated tutor or skills coach, start to finish.

How much does it cost?

Often less than you'd think. Most apprenticeship training is government-funded — for smaller businesses the government covers up to 95% of the cost — and our diplomas can be funded by an Advanced Learner Loan, so there's nothing to pay upfront. We'll talk you through exactly what you're entitled to.

Do I need experience or qualifications to start?

Not necessarily — and you certainly don't need to be a school leaver. Our programmes are open to all ages and abilities, from people taking their first step to experienced professionals moving into leadership. If you're not sure where you'd fit, we'll help you find the right level.

What kind of training does eTraining offer?

We provide apprenticeships, diplomas and work-based learning across areas like Leadership & Management, Health & Social Care, the Children and Young People's workforce, Customer Service, and Business & Administration. Whether you're an individual building a career or an employer building a team, there's a route to suit you.

Contact

Ready to start your journey?

Complete the short form and one of our team will be in touch to discuss your next steps.

Portrait of a man smiling in gray sweater against dark background.
Portrait of a man with beard wearing a dark shirt looking at camera.
Portrait of a woman with glasses wearing a navy shirt against warm background.
Portrait of a woman smiling softly in beige sweater with neutral backdrop.
Join the thousands of happy clients

Please fill out the form

We’ll get back to you within 1–2 business days.