58 | HOT TOPIC
Apprenticeships
If you’re looking to go back to basics or wondering why the CIPP is kicking up such a fuss over National Apprenticeship Week, we’ve answered some of the most important questions for you. Q: What’s an apprenticeship? An apprenticeship is an approved programme of learning that covers a wide range of knowledge, skills and behaviours, which are developed through a mixture of’on-and-off-the-job’ training. The apprenticeship process is split into three parts: 1. The first part of the apprenticeship is called ‘on- programme’, and this is where the apprentice will complete all training. This will be split, with 80% of their time working and 20% of their time studying. This will include tutorials, mentoring, carrying out new duties / tasks and continual assessment to track their progress throughout. 2. The second part is called ‘gateway’, and this is when the employer, apprentice and training provider agree the apprentice is ready to begin assessments and submit all the necessary documentation. 3. The final part of an apprenticeship is called ‘end- point assessment’. This is where the apprentice will complete three assessments. The assessment requirements are set out by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education, and are administered by an end-point assessment organisation using an independent assessor. Q: What’s a payroll apprenticeship?
l the Level 3 Payroll Administrator apprenticeship l the Level 5 Payroll Assistant Manager apprenticeship. Level 3 is aimed at employees who are setting up and operating payroll within their organisation (or on behalf of another organisation) and typically includes job titles such as Payroll Administrator, Advisor, Officer or Associate. This level of apprenticeship can be for new recruits just entering payroll or Administrators who have experience but no formal qualifications as yet. They could sit within the human resources or finance function of a business, as well as directly within a payroll department. Level 5 is aimed at employees who have additional responsibility within their role, such as leading a team of Junior Payroll Administrators, working and advising on complex cases such as expense and benefit calculations or interacting with Government departments such as HM Revenue and Customs to ensure compliance. Job titles could include Payroll Assistant Manager, Supervisor, Specialist or Team Leader. It can be completed by those who are currently in such roles or those who are moving into these types of roles, as long as they’ll be gaining the relevant experience throughout their apprenticeship. Each Standard will look at technical knowledge and business awareness applicable to the level, while also covering ethical behaviour, adaptability and ownership. The analysis, teamwork, communication and system use will be appropriate to the Standard studied. All these areas are taught and assessed with relevance to the payroll industry, with payroll employers being involved in creating both levels to ensure an accurate occupational Standard is held.
There are two payroll-specific apprenticeships available:
Made with FlippingBook - Online magazine maker