This article defines the eligibility criteria and classification system for Off-the-Job (OTJ) Training within Multiverse apprenticeships. It outlines Department for Education (DfE) compliance requirements, specifically the "On-Programme" window between Flying Start and Gateway. The document provides a standardised OTJ Category Reference Matrix to ensure accurate logging of Applied Learning, Coach interactions, and self-directed study on The Platform.
Qualifying Criteria for OTJ Training
An activity officially qualifies as OTJ Training if it involves learning or practicing new concepts directly relevant to the knowledge, skills, or behaviours (KSBs) of the apprenticeship standard. The Apprentice must verify that an activity meets the following four criteria:
Relevance: The activity must enhance proficiency in an area specifically outlined in the apprenticeship standard.
New Learning or Practice: The Apprentice must acquire new information or refine an existing skill. Routine work tasks that do not involve new learning cannot be logged.
Work Hours: The activity must take place during the Apprentice's contracted working hours.
On-Programme Period: OTJ Training is only valid during the "on-programme" phase. This period begins after Flying Start (initial induction) and concludes at the Gateway date (readiness for End-Point Assessment).
Compliance Requirements and Working Hours
Per DfE regulations, the employer must ensure The Apprentice has dedicated time within working hours to complete training.
Training on Non-Working Days: If a learning event occurs on a day off, The Apprentice may log it as OTJ Training only if the employer agrees to provide "Time Off in Lieu" (TOIL). This constitutes a formal rearrangement of working hours.
Weekend Logging: If The Platform does not support weekend entries, The Apprentice should log the hours on the closest available workday and specify the actual date and day in the activity description.
Excluded Activities: Progress Reviews do not count as OTJ Training. According to funding rules, these sessions are administrative and do not constitute active learning of new KSBs.
OTJ Category Reference Matrix
When logging hours on The Platform, The Apprentice must select the most appropriate category to ensure accurate tracking of professional development.
OTJ Category | Description | Examples |
Workshop or Bootcamp | Instructor-led, structured sessions covering specific modules. | Attending a delivery session; participating in a technical skills bootcamp. |
Training at Work | Formal or informal training provided within the workplace. | Internal software training; 1:1 coaching from a senior colleague. |
Apprenticeship Learning | Self-directed activities to deepen subject matter expertise. | Reading industry articles; watching technical tutorials; project research. |
Shadowing a Colleague | Observing professional practices to learn new processes. | Observing a manager in meetings; shadowing a developer's coding. |
Applying Learning to Work | Implementing apprenticeship KSBs into daily work tasks. | Using a new analytical technique; applying project management principles. |
Cohort Collaboration | Peer-to-peer learning with fellow Apprentices. | Group assignments; concept discussions; peer study groups. |
Portfolio Work | Compiling and organising evidence for the portfolio. | Writing reflections; collecting work samples; organising documents. |
Assignment or Project | Completing academic tasks assigned within modules. | Working on a module assignment; writing up a research project. |
Module Learning | Activities to prepare for or reinforce module delivery. | Completing pre-work; reviewing session notes; creating flashcards. |
Assessment Revision | Specific preparation for exams or knowledge checks. | Practice knowledge checks; creating revision resources. |
Communicating with Coach | Seeking developmental guidance from The Coach. | Discussing challenges; seeking advice on skill improvement. |
Multiverse Community | Engagement with the broader community for development. | Attending community events; utilising the Multiverse Hub. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Question | Answer |
Can I log OTJ Training after Gateway? | No. OTJ Training must be completed during the "on-programme" period. Activities completed during the EPA period cannot be logged as OTJ. |
Do Progress Reviews count as OTJ? | No. Per DfE funding rules, Progress Reviews are not considered active learning and cannot be logged as OTJ Training. |
How do I handle OTJ on a weekend? | The Apprentice should log the entry on the nearest workday and clearly state the actual date of the activity in the description box. |
What if an activity fits two categories? | The Apprentice should select the most relevant category and focus on providing an accurate description of the learning achieved. |