To be eligible for apprenticeship levy funding, an apprentice must meet specific work location requirements. This article clarifies where an apprentice needs to be working.
A core requirement is that an apprentice must spend at least 50% of their total working time over the duration of their apprenticeship physically working in England.
This requirement applies to all apprentices, including those who work remotely or have hybrid working arrangements.
Key Considerations:
Remote Workers Outside of England: If an apprentice is working remotely from a location outside of England, this time can only count towards their apprenticeship if they remain on UK PAYE (Pay As You Earn) and the employer is based in England. However, critically, the apprentice must still meet the overarching requirement of spending a minimum of 50% of their total working time physically in England.
Temporary Work Abroad: An apprentice is permitted to complete a portion of their apprenticeship from abroad on a temporary basis. This is subject to them remaining on UK PAYE. However, the time spent working abroad must not exceed 50% of the total duration of the apprenticeship.
Permanent Relocation Abroad: It is not possible for an apprentice to continue to be eligible for English apprenticeship levy funding if they move abroad permanently. This is because the funding is specifically for apprenticeships delivered within the English system.