Can I transfer my apprenticeship to another employer?

Yes, it is often possible to transfer your apprenticeship to another employer without losing the progress you have already made. Whether you are changing jobs voluntarily, your employer can no longer support your apprenticeship, or you have been made redundant, there are processes in place to help you continue your training and complete your apprenticeship.

The exact steps depend on your apprenticeship programme, employer and training provider, but in many cases you can continue learning with a new employer while working towards the same qualification.

When is it possible to transfer an apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship transfer may be possible if:

• You have found a new employer willing to continue your apprenticeship programme.
• Your current employer can no longer support your apprenticeship.
• You are changing jobs but wish to continue working towards the same apprenticeship standard.
• You have been made redundant and need to find a new employer to complete your training.

The new role should normally align with the apprenticeship standard you are already studying. If the new role is significantly different, you may need to discuss alternative options with your training provider.

In most cases, the aim is to continue your existing apprenticeship rather than start a completely new programme.

How to transfer an apprenticeship to another employer

Transferring an apprenticeship involves coordination between the apprentice, the current employer, the new employer and the training provider.

Step 1: Speak to your training provider

As soon as you know a transfer may be needed, contact your training provider. They can explain your options, advise whether your apprenticeship can continue and help minimise disruption to your learning.

Step 2: Secure a new employer

You will need a new employer who is willing to support your apprenticeship and provide work that matches the requirements of the apprenticeship standard.

Step 3: Review your existing progress

Your training provider will review the learning, skills and knowledge you have already completed. This helps ensure your previous achievements can contribute towards the remainder of your apprenticeship.

Step 4: Complete new apprenticeship agreements

The new employer will need to complete the required apprenticeship documentation, including an apprenticeship agreement and training arrangements.

Step 5: Continue your apprenticeship

Once the transfer has been approved, you can continue your apprenticeship with your new employer and work towards completing the programme.

What happens to funding during an apprenticeship transfer?

In many cases, apprenticeship funding can continue after a transfer.

Funding does not usually restart from the beginning simply because an apprentice changes employers. Instead, the remaining funding available for the apprenticeship can continue to be used to support the rest of the training programme.

If the apprentice remains with the same training provider, existing funding arrangements can often continue with minimal changes. If a new training provider is required, funding records must be updated to reflect the transfer.

The exact funding arrangements may vary depending on the apprenticeship standard, funding rules and whether the new employer is a levy paying employer.

What does the employer need to do?

A new employer plays an important role in ensuring a smooth apprenticeship transfer.

The employer will typically need to:

• Ensure the role supports the apprenticeship standard.
• Work with the training provider to confirm the apprentice's existing progress.
• Complete the required apprenticeship agreements and documentation.
• Arrange appropriate workplace support and supervision.
• Confirm funding arrangements where required.
• Maintain communication with the training provider throughout the remainder of the apprenticeship.

Employers should also review any onboarding requirements to help the apprentice settle into their new role while continuing their studies.

What does the apprentice need to do?

If you are transferring your apprenticeship, there are several steps you can take to make the process easier.

You should:

• Keep your training provider informed about any employment changes.
• Maintain records of completed coursework, training and assessments.
• Provide information about your apprenticeship progress to your new employer where requested.
• Continue engaging with your learning activities throughout the transfer process.
• Seek advice from your training provider if you are unsure about any part of the process.

Being proactive can help reduce delays and ensure your apprenticeship remains on track.

Do I need to change the training provider?

Not necessarily.

In many cases, apprentices can continue working with the same training provider after moving to a new employer. This is often the simplest option because the provider already understands your progress and training requirements.

However, there may be situations where a new training provider is needed. For example, the new employer may have an existing relationship with a different provider, or your current provider may not be able to support the new employment arrangement.

If you transfer apprenticeship training to another provider, your learning records and funding information should be transferred so that your progress can continue without unnecessary repetition.

Before changing provider, it is important to discuss the implications with both your employer and your training provider.