What constitutes Off-the-Job Training?

What Is Off-the-Job Training?

Off-the-job training is defined as learning that:

• Takes place outside the apprentice’s normal job duties
• Occurs within paid working hours
• Contributes to the knowledge, skills, and behaviours (KSBs) required by the apprenticeship standard

It is a legal requirement and must be planned, recorded, and delivered consistently throughout the apprenticeship.

✅ To Employers:

• It’s a mandatory part of the apprenticeship programme.
• Must be delivered during paid hours, not as overtime or homework.
• Helps apprentices become more skilled and productive.
• Employers must support and facilitate this training.

✅ To Apprentices:

• You’re entitled to this training as part of your apprenticeship.
• It’s your opportunity to learn and grow beyond your daily tasks.
• It should be agreed upon in your training plan and happen during your working hours.

Activities That Can Be Claimed

To qualify, activities must meet all four tests:

✅ The Four Tests:

1. New Learning: Must teach new knowledge, skills, or behaviours.
2. Relevant to the Standard: Must relate directly to the apprenticeship standard.
3. Outside Usual Duties: Must be separate from normal job tasks.
4. Within Paid Hours: Must occur during paid working time

Examples of Eligible Activities:

• Attending lectures, seminars, or workshops
• Online learning modules
• Shadowing experienced colleagues
• Coaching or mentoring sessions
• Simulation exercises or role play
• Industry visits or networking events
• Writing assignments or project work
• Research and self-directed study
• Group discussions or peer learning
• Portfolio development and reflection
• Preparation for end-point assessment (EPA)
• Learning new software or tools relevant to the role
• Attending webinars or professional development sessions
• Reviewing case studies or best practice examples

🚫 Not Eligible:

• Training outside paid hours (unless compensated)
• Routine job tasks
• Progress reviews or assessments (unless they deliver new learning)
• English and maths training (if required separately)