There are special rules to observe when employing an apprentice in the UK. Basically, an apprentice takes part in a structured training program that combines working with studying. Apprentices gain practical experience while earning a wage and working towards a recognised qualification. An apprentice can be a new or current employee.

Employers must pay an apprentice at least the minimum wage. The minimum rate is currently £6.40 an hour. Apprentices are entitled to the minimum wage for their age if they are aged 19 or over and have completed the first year of their apprenticeship.

The following steps to hiring an apprentice are detailed on GOV.UK:

1. Choose an apprenticeship for your business or organisation.
2. Find an organisation that offers training for the apprenticeship you’ve chosen.
3. Check what training funding you can get.
4. Create an account – you need this to manage funding and recruit apprentices.
5. Advertise your apprenticeship – find out how to create an advert or give your training provider permission to do this for you.
6. Make an apprenticeship agreement and training plan with your chosen apprentice.

Employers that do not want to hire and train the apprentice themselves can use a flexi-job apprenticeship agency. The apprentice will be employed by the agency but will work in their organisation.

This guidance is for employers in England. There are regional differences for those hiring an apprentice in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.