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New Apprenticeship Off-the-Job Training and What Employers Need to Know

The Department for Education (DfE) has introduced set minimum off-the-job (OTJ) training hours for every apprenticeship standard, bringing more clarity and flexibility to how apprenticeships are delivered.

Previously, OTJ training was based on 20% of an apprentice’s working hours. But starting in the 2025–26 funding year, this is now replaced by fixed OTJ training hours per apprenticeship standard, regardless of the apprentice's working pattern.

This means:
• No more percentage calculations based on hours worked
• A consistent training requirement across all apprentices
• Greater flexibility in how and when training is delivered, so long as the minimum duration is met

These changes are designed to make apprenticeship delivery simpler and more adaptable which is especially useful for employers juggling operational needs with staff development.

Here’s how it benefits you:
• Clearer planning: Know upfront exactly how much training is required for each apprenticeship
• Less administration: No need to work out training hours based on individual contracts or working weeks
• Flexible delivery: Learning Curve Group will try to tailor delivery to suit your business needs, while meeting the new minimum requirements
• Consistency and quality will ensure every apprentice receives an appropriate level of training

• Check the new minimum OTJ hours for any apprenticeship standards you plan to use from August 2025
• Work with your Learning Curve Group representative to build flexible training schedules that meet both the minimum hours and your business needs
• Ensure accurate assessments are carried out, as prior learning can reduce OTJ hours, but delivery must never fall below 187 hours or 8 months in duration

Minimum Off-the-Job Training Hours

 

Learning Curve Group is committed to keeping all our learners and employers informed and supported through these changes and we will continue to share any updates as further information becomes available. In the meantime, if you're an employer seeking clarity on any of the changes, our team is ready to help and support you.

📞 Contact us

For more information call: 01388 777129 or 
email: LCGAppAcademy@learningcurvegroup.co.uk