01702 782001OFF-THE-JOB TRAINING (OTJ)
What Employers Need to Know
As an employer, you play a vital role in supporting your apprentice’s development. One key aspect of apprenticeship training is off-the-job (OTJ) training, a mandatory requirement set by the government to ensure apprentices gain the knowledge, skills, and behaviours needed to succeed in their role.
This guide explains what off-the-job training is, how it works, and how it benefits both apprentices and employers.
What is Off-the-Job Training?
Off-the-job training is learning that takes place during working hours but outside of the apprentice’s normal day-to-day job duties. It is designed to develop new skills and knowledge that directly relate to their apprenticeship.
Must be at least 6 hours per week (based on a full-time contract) Must relate directly to the apprenticeship standard – ensuring it aligns with learning outcomes and assessments. Can include employer-led training sessions – internal workshops, mentoring, and structured learning activities count. Must be during paid working hours – training should happen within the apprentice’s normal working schedule. Must be recorded by the learner and evidenced – employers must keep a log of training activities to remain compliant. Can include theory, practical training, or shadowing opportunities
Important: Off-the-job training is not unpaid time or extra hours—it is part of the apprentice’s contracted working time.
The Importance of Off-the-Job Training & Employer Responsibilities
Off-the-job training is a vital part of an apprenticeship, ensuring apprentices gain new skills, knowledge, and behaviours that benefit both the individual and the business. It enhances productivity, efficiency, and career progression while keeping employers compliant with government regulations.
Develops New Skills – Apprentices learn practical, job-relevant skills that can be applied immediately in the workplace. Boosts Productivity – Well-trained apprentices become more confident, efficient, and capable in their roles. Meets Government Requirements – Employers must ensure off-the-job training is properly documented to remain compliant with funding rules. Supports Career Progression – Apprentices are better prepared for long-term growth and leadership roles within your organisation.
Employer Responsibilities
As an employer, you must:
Provide at least 6 hours per week of off-the-job training during working hours. Support apprentices by ensuring they have dedicated time for training.
Good News: Off-the-job training doesn’t mean time away from work!
By effectively integrating off-the-job training, you invest in workforce development, ensuring your apprentices and business thrive. 
Examples of Off-the-Job Training
Classroom or Online Learning – Attending workshops, training sessions, webinars, or e-learning modules related to the apprenticeship.
Mentoring & Coaching – Receiving structured one-to-one support from a senior colleague or Skills Coach.
Shadowing & Observations – Observing experienced staff members to learn new industry skills, best practices, and processes.
Project Work & Assignments – Completing case studies, business improvement projects, or research tasks that develop new skills.
Industry Events & Networking – Attending conferences, employer site visits, trade fairs, or professional development events. Practical Training – Gaining hands-on experience with new tools, techniques, or software outside of routine job tasks.
Software & IT Training – Learning new digital systems, CRM platforms, data analysis tools, or industry-specific software.
Self-Study & Research – Undertaking structured independent learning, such as reading industry reports, whitepapers, or online courses.
Role-Playing & Simulated Scenarios – Practising customer service techniques, leadership scenarios, or mock recruitment exercises.
Presentations & Knowledge Sharing – Preparing and delivering internal training sessions, presentations, or knowledge-sharing workshops.
Process Improvement & Innovation Projects – Identifying and implementing efficiency improvements, customer service enhancements, or business solutions.
Workplace Policy & Compliance Training – Learning about health & safety, employment law, GDPR, or other industry regulations.
Stakeholder Engagement Activities – Collaborating with external partners, clients, or industry professionals on projects or initiatives.
End-Point Assessment Preparation – Completing mock assessments, portfolio work, and structured revision sessions in preparation for final assessment.
Get Support with Off-the-Job Training
At RM Training, we work closely with employers to ensure compliance, maximise training effectiveness, and minimise disruption to business operations. Our team provides:
Tailored guidance on how to integrate off-the-job training into your business. Support with tracking and evidencing training hours. Flexible learning options to fit around work schedules.
Contact us today to find out how we can support you with off-the-job training and apprenticeships.
Invest in your workforce and future-proof your business with apprenticeships!