Apprenticeships and HTQs - what's the difference?
Posted on 19th December 2024 at 15:37
If you’ve followed Fareport for a while you’ll know all about the benefits of Apprenticeships and the wide range that are available. But Apprenticeships don’t suit every employer or every learner, so we also offer flexible courses like HTQs (Higher Technical Qualifications). Here are some reasons HTQs might suit you and your team:
1. Simpler and faster to set up
No requirement for apprenticeship contracts or formal agreements: HTQs can be offered as standalone courses without the need for the apprenticeship structure.
Reduced admin burden: HTQs don't require extensive paperwork, such as compliance with apprenticeship levy rules or apprenticeship funding guidelines.
Shorter timescales: HTQs typically have a more streamlined setup process, allowing businesses to enrol employees quickly and start training sooner.
2. Flexible learning for employees
Self-paced study: HTQs include online and flexible components that make it easier for employees to fit learning around work without disruption to business operations.
No “off-the-job” requirement: Apprenticeships mandate at least 20% of the employee’s time to be spent on off-the-job training, which can strain team resources. HTQs don’t have this restriction, making them less disruptive to day-to-day productivity.
3. No mandatory functional skills requirement
Unlike Apprenticeships, HTQs don’t require Maths and English functional skills before you can achieve the qualification.
4. No exams or timed assessments
Time based exams and End Point Assessments don’t suit all learners. HTQs are assessed through assignments and written work, without exams.
5. More accessible to a wider range of employees
The training can be outside of your current job role: To achieve an apprenticeship you need to demonstrate the Skills and Behaviours in your current role. HTQs can be used to learn a new skill, ready for a career move, or as a progression pathway for those who are nearly ready for promotion.
No eligibility restrictions: HTQs are accessible to anyone who wants to upskill or reskill, including part-time or newly hired employees. They can be of any age or experience and don’t have to be resident in the UK for 3 years.
No fixed minimum working hours: HTQs are open to part-time employees or those in high-demand roles, or even those looking to start a new career.
6. Faster completion times
Shorter duration: HTQs can often be completed in less time than apprenticeships, allowing employees to gain skills and qualifications faster.
Immediate ROI: Employers see a quicker return on their investment, as employees can implement their new knowledge and skills sooner.
7. Cost-effective and competitive pricing
Lower upfront costs: HTQs are offered at affordable rates, especially when discounts or subsidies are available. For example, Fareport Training’s HTQs are currently available at introductory prices—£500 for Data Analytics and £900 for Operational Management.
No additional wage considerations: Employers sponsoring an HTQ don’t have to adhere to apprenticeship-specific wage requirements, which makes budgeting simpler.
No ongoing levy pressures: While apprenticeships are levy-funded, many employers find the administration and co-investment elements cumbersome. HTQs are simpler, with straightforward fee structures.
By choosing an HTQ, employers can streamline professional development, support team growth with less administrative complexity, and maintain productivity—all while empowering their employees with industry-relevant skills.
Tagged as: HTQs
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