Where industry demand meets emerging talent.
Develop new and existing employees with apprenticeship programmes from Level 2 to degree level across all major employment sectors.
Our employer-led approach ensures training reflects real industry needs, with full recruitment and vacancy support provided by your dedicated Business Relationship Manager.
With significant government funding available, apprenticeships offer a cost-effective route to strengthening and expanding your workforce.
High impact apprenticeships for your business
Apprenticeships are built around your business. Every programme reflects real workplace demands, giving your team the practical skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to perform and progress. You won’t be doing it alone; a dedicated Business Relationship Manager will guide you through the process.
How it works
Step One: Aligning talent with business goals
Before a single job ad is posted, we work with you to ensure the apprenticeship delivers a genuine Return on Investment (ROI).
- Custom Skills Audit: we don’t just fill roles, but work with you to identify which apprenticeship programme will actually solve your operational bottlenecks.
- Unlocking the funding: we navigate the Digital Apprenticeship Service (DAS) for you. Whether you’re a levy-payer or small business, we ensure you access every penny of available funding.
- Defining the role: we help you draft a job description that attracts “career-starters” and “career-changers” who are motivated to grow within your company culture.
What do apprentices get from UCS College Group?
All apprentices working across any of our Colleges will have access to:
What will it cost you?
The cost of training an apprentice depends primarily on the size of your annual paybill. The UK government uses two distinct models to ensure training is accessible to everyone from micro businesses to global corporations.
| Feature | SME / Small Business | Large Employer / Levy Payer |
|---|---|---|
| Annual paybill | Under £3 million | Over £3 million |
| How you pay | 5% co-investment | 0.5% Monthly Levy Tax |
| Government support | Gov pays 95% of training costs | Gov adds 10% top-up to your funds |
| Recruitment fee | £0 with UCS College Group | £0 with UCS College Group |
| Incentives | £1,000 for 16-18 year olds | £1,000 for 16-18 year olds |
Source: UK Government and the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA).
An Outstanding provision
In our latest Ofsted inspection, our apprenticeship provision was rated Outstanding. Inspectors highlighted how:
“Apprentices develop an extensive range of skills and knowledge, with many extending and deepening specialist skills beyond the requirements of their qualifications.”
This recognition reflects our commitment to delivering exceptional training, whether you’re entering the NHS, a local business, a government department, or a global corporation.
Degree apprenticeships
For those looking to earn a university-level qualification without the tuition fees, Degree apprenticeships are an ideal pathway. Offered in partnership with employers and universities, these programmes let you work full-time while studying toward a Bachelor’s or even Master’s degree.
NHS & Government apprenticeships
We have long-standing relationships with NHS trusts, local authorities, and public sector bodies. We regularly advertise NHS and Government apprenticeships via our Talent Pool, giving you access to rewarding roles in healthcare, education, civil service, and beyond.
The Apprentice National Minimum Wage applies to those under 19, and those 19 and over in their first year.
After the first year, those 19 and over are entitled to the full National Minimum/Living Wage rate for their age.
However, many employers, especially in the Public Sector, pay significantly more than the minimum.
Apprenticeships have no set Level. They can range from Level 2 (Intermediate, equivalent to GCSEs) up to Level 7 (Master’s Degree).
Your starting level depends on your existing qualifications and the job role.
The duration varies, but they must last a minimum of 12 months plus the final assessment.
Most programmes last between 18 months and 4 years, depending on the qualification level.
You must be 16 or over, live in England, and not currently be in full-time education.
You must also meet any specific entry requirements (e.g., specific GCSE grades).
Industry Sectors
UCS College Group is your gateway to workforce excellence. We offer a range of courses across multiple industry sectors, including Nuclear & Clean Energy, Construction, and Civil Engineering.
Apprenticeships
Our employer-led approach ensures training reflects real industry needs, with full recruitment and vacancy support provided by your dedicated Business Relationship Manager.
Partner with Us
We want to hear from employers. Your insight helps shape our curriculum, ensuring training provision is aligned with real industry requirements.
of all new starts are studying at Level 4 and above.
students are participating in an apprenticeship as of Nov 2025.
of apprentices starting in 2025 are aged 25 or over.