Some Frequently asked Questions & Answers

We have designed this page to help answer any questions you may have, however if you require any further information call: 0845 873 6315 today.

1) Do I need certain qualifications to enrol on a course?
a) Not necessarily but that will depend on the qualification and level that you chose.

2) What time of year can I start the qualification?
a) You can start your NVQ at any time of the year, although this is often at the discretion of your employer.

3) Am I entitled to government funding?
a) If you are in full time employment 16 hours per week or more, aged between 16-24 and do not hold a degree or equivalent then you could be eligible for government funding. More info can be found here.

4) What are the benefits of work based learning?
a) There are many advantages, in completing vocational training with Kaplan:
• You get to earn a wage while your completing a nationally recognised qualification
• You can practice the skills you are requiring immediately
• The qualifications are nationally recognised so are transferable throughout your career
• You do not have to attend college or university
• E-NVQ means you don’t have to carry around a paper based portfolio and you have access to your online portfolio 24 hours a day
• Increase your future careers prospects
• Qualifications are assessed through practical skills and experience rather than examinations and classroom.

5) What are NVQ qualifications equivalent to?
a) An apprenticeship Level 2 Foundation NVQ is equivalent to 5 GCSE Grades A-C. Advanced Apprenticeships Level 3 qualifications are equivalent to A levels.

6) How will I know what qualification is right for me?
a) The qualification that you decide to take will depend mainly on your current job role and the duties you carry out. Kaplan will discuss the options available with both the employer and the learner before you enrol on any vocational qualification.

7) How long will it take to complete the qualification?
a) Everybody progresses at various rates. It is down to the individual learner and how much effort they are willing to commit to achieving the qualification. It also depends on the level of qualification you are studying. Most apprentices can expect to achieve their qualification within 9-12 months.

8) Should I become an Apprentice or can I start an apprenticeship qualification?
a) If you are already employed and contracted over 16 hours per week then your employer may be happy for you to complete vocational training with Kaplan.

You can contact us and we will arrange to speak to you and your employer to make sure all parties are committed to the qualification. If you are aged 16-18 and currently do not have a job, then you can apply to the Apprenticeship vacancies Kaplan have available through using our CV Service

9) If I start an apprenticeship how much will I earn and will I get paid travel expenses?

a) This can vary depending on the employer’s specifications. By law all apprentices must be paid at least £95.01 per week, whilst they are completing the apprenticeship programme. It is at the employer’s discretion to offer more then the £95.01 per week.

Most employers will offer a travel allowance as well as a weekly wage; this is also at the employer’s discretion.

10) Will I have to attend College?
a) No. Most of the vocational qualifications are work based, so you will be assessed in your work place, by a tutor or assessor on a regular basis. The assessor or tutor may at times require you to spend time off the job to complete work but this will be minimal and will be agreed in advance with your employer.

11) What are Key Skills and Technical Certificates?
a) These skills are essential and are required for learners to be able to carry out their job effectively. Key skills include application of number and communication. You may have exemptions from Key Skills; this is something that will be discussed on enrolment.

Technical certificates test your knowledge and understanding of the industry you work in and your job role. You may be required to complete assessments in Key skills and Technical Certificates.