Employer Guide 2026 Now available – Launching on Day 1 of National Apprenticeship Week 2026!

Our updated Employer’s Guide to Understanding Apprenticeships 2026 is now live! It has been designed to give employers a clear, practical overview of how apprenticeships work, what is expected, and how BPIF Training supports you at every stage. Whether you are hiring new talent or developing existing staff, the guide brings together everything you need to make confident decisions.

Below is an overview of what each section covers and how it helps your organisation. You can also download the full guide.

Understanding Apprenticeships

A detailed explanation of apprenticeship levels, funding, and the time commitment involved. This includes:

• Differences between Level 2, Level 3, higher and degree apprenticeships

• How the Apprenticeship Levy works

• Co-investment for non-levy employers

• Government incentives

• Levy transfers and how these can support smaller businesses

Employers Guide 2026 – Understanding Apprenticeships

Identifying Business Needs & Recruitment

This section supports employers to plan ahead by linking apprenticeship roles to real workforce needs. It covers:

• How to identify skills gaps

• Matching apprenticeships to roles

• Succession planning

• Writing job descriptions and person specifications

• Salary considerations

• Advertising and shortlisting
  This gives a clear overview of how to recruit effectively and attract strong candidates.

Employers Guide 2026 – Identifying Business Needs & Recruitment Process

Maximising the Benefits

This section focuses on turning apprenticeship investment into long-term results. It includes:

• Strategies for retaining apprentices

• How to support progression

• Higher-level training and leadership development

• How to build a strong talent pipeline
  Employers can use this section to plan career pathways and improve retention.

Employers Guide 2026 – Maximising the benefits

Ongoing Support, Assessments & Performance Management

A clear breakdown of how apprentices are supported throughout the programme, including:

• Off-the-job training requirements

• Progress reviews

• Employer involvement

• EPA preparation

• Managing performance and addressing concerns
  This gives employers a full understanding of their role throughout the apprenticeship.

Employers Guide 2026 – Ongoing Support, Assessments & Managing Apprentice Performance

Onboarding Your Apprentice

This section outlines how to create a positive start for new apprentices. It includes guidance on:

• Induction

• Health and safety

• Assigning a mentor

• Creating and adjusting training plans

• Monitoring early progress
  This helps employers support apprentices from day one and sets them up for success.

Employers Guide 2026 – Onboarding your Apprentice

Interview Questions

A bank of suggested questions to help employers conduct supportive, structured interviews. The focus is on assessing motivation, willingness to learn, and potential – particularly for first-time jobseekers.

Employers Guide 2026 – Interview Questions

Mental Health and Wellbeing

This section explains how employers can recognise signs of poor wellbeing and create a supportive environment. It includes internal and external resources, suggested adjustments, and links to specialist support services such as Access to Work Mental Health Support.

Employers Guide 2026 – Mental Health

Frequently Asked Questions

A practical summary of commonly asked questions covering eligibility, off-the-job training, employer responsibilities, EPA, funding, advertising roles, and more. This provides quick, clear answers to help employers navigate the process with confidence.

Employers Guide 2026 – FAQ’s

English and Maths Requirements

A detailed explanation of Functional Skills requirements, including the new rules for learners aged 19+ (from February 2025). It explains what is mandatory, what is optional, and how Functional Skills are delivered and recorded.

Employers Guide 2026 – English Maths

Why This Guide Matters for Employers

The Employer’s Guide 2026 gives you:

• A complete overview of how apprenticeships work

• Clarity on employer responsibilities and funding

• Practical tools for recruitment, onboarding and performance management

• Guidance on supporting wellbeing and progression

• Clear information that helps you make informed decisions

It’s designed to save time, reduce uncertainty, and help you build a strong and skilled workforce.

Download the Employer’s Guide 2026

📄 Download the full guide here

Employers Guide 2026 – Full Guide

Get Involved in National Apprenticeship Week 2026

National Apprenticeship Week begins today. Download the guide, explore how apprenticeships can support your future workforce, and get involved throughout the week.

Found out how you can get involved and access our Employer Toolkit!

Book Onto Our Employer Session

If you’re looking for a clear and concise introduction to apprenticeships, join our online briefing:
Apprenticeships Explained in 20 Minutes – What Employers Need to Know
👉 https://bpif.training/apprenticeships-explained-in-20-minutes-what-employers-need-to-know-online-session/

What else is happening this week?

Stay with us for more National Apprenticeship Week 2026 treats, including the release of our new Learner Guide and articles throughout the week!