Apprenticeship essentials

Off-the-Job Training

A clear, practical guide to what off-the-job training is, what counts, what doesn't, and how it works alongside your normal working life.

The basics

Learning that happens at work

Off-the-job training is a protected part of every apprenticeship — dedicated time during your paid working hours to develop the knowledge, skills, and behaviours your programme requires.

Despite the name, it doesn't mean leaving your workplace. Any structured learning that helps you build the skills your apprenticeship requires — without the usual interruptions of your day-to-day role — can count. The key is that it's planned, protected time for development.

6hrs
Minimum per week
on average
100%
Within paid
working hours
Flexible
Doesn't need to be
a full day per week
Training session photo
Examples

What counts as off-the-job training?

The range of activities that qualify is broader than most people expect. Here are the types of learning your BrightPeak trainer will help you log and plan.

Teaching & masterclass sessions
Online resources & learning modules
Research & note writing
Attending industry events
Mentoring & shadowing
Online educational games & quizzes
Podcasts & audio learning
Swapping departments
Internal training sessions
Team building activities
Completing coursework & assignments
And much more…
Quick reference

Does it count?

Four questions to ask before logging any activity as off-the-job training. All four must be yes.

This IS off-the-job training
Directly relevant to your apprenticeship standard
Teaching new knowledge, skills, or behaviours
Taking place within your paid normal working hours
If English or Maths — it is above Level 2
This is NOT off-the-job training
Initial assessments and enrolment activities
Progress reviews and on-programme assessments
English and Maths at Level 2 or below
Learning done in overtime or outside paid hours
The requirements

Three rules you need to know

These are the government rules that govern off-the-job training. Your BrightPeak trainer will make sure you stay on track throughout your programme.

1
Minimum 6 hours per week on average
Off-the-job training must make up at least 6 hours per week on average over the planned duration of the apprenticeship. It doesn't have to be exactly 6 hours every week — it averages out over the programme.
This is the minimum. We build a plan at enrolment to make sure you hit it comfortably.
2
Must happen in normal working hours
All off-the-job training must be delivered during your paid normal working hours. It can be in your workplace or at an external location — but not in overtime or during annual leave.
3
Certain activities don't count
Time spent on initial assessments, onboarding, progress reviews, on-programme assessments, and English and Maths up to Level 2 does not count toward your off-the-job training total.
If in doubt, ask your trainer. It's always better to check.
Why it matters

The benefits of protected learning time

Variety of learning methods
Access a range of learning styles and resources, tailored to how you learn best — not just one approach repeated throughout.
Industry connections
Connect with others in your sector. Peer learning and networking are a genuine part of professional development that you can log and benefit from.
Deeper understanding
Structured off-the-job time builds a richer, more meaningful understanding of your apprenticeship and how it connects to your actual role.
Flexible and practical
It's designed to embed into your working life — not fight against it. Your trainer will help design a plan that works for you and your manager from day one.
Keeping track

Logging your off-the-job hours

All off-the-job training needs to be logged on your OneFile account as soon as you complete it. It's a simple habit that protects your progress and keeps your programme on track.

1
Complete the learning activity
Any qualifying off-the-job activity — teaching session, research, shadowing, online module, or anything else your trainer has approved.
2
Log it on OneFile immediately
Don't leave it — log it as soon as you're done. Record the activity, the time spent, and what you learned or practised.
3
Your trainer reviews and confirms
Your BrightPeak trainer will check your logs regularly and flag anything that needs adjusting. Staying on top of it means no surprises at gateway.
Apprentice logging photo

Questions about your programme?

Your BrightPeak trainer is there to help. If you're an employer or prospective apprentice with questions, our team can talk you through everything.

Book a call with our team Get in touch