OFF-THE-JOB TRAINING (OTJ)
What You Need to Know as an Apprentice
As an apprentice, your training includes off-the-job (OTJ) training, an essential part of your apprenticeship. This is a government requirement designed to help you develop the knowledge, skills, and behaviours needed to succeed in your role.
OTJ training takes place during your working hours but focuses on learning and development rather than your day-to-day job tasks. This guide explains what off-the-job training is, how it works, and how it benefits you as an apprentice.
What is Off-the-Job Training?
Off-the-job (OTJ) training is learning that takes place during your working hours but outside of your normal daily job tasks. It is designed to help you develop new skills and knowledge that directly support your apprenticeship.
🔹 At least 6 hours per week (for full-time apprentices)
🔹 Directly linked to your apprenticeship standard – ensuring it supports your learning and assessments
🔹 Includes employer-led training – such as internal workshops, mentoring, and structured learning activities
🔹 Takes place during paid working hours – so it is part of your normal work schedule
🔹 Must be recorded and evidenced – your employer needs to log training activities for compliance
🔹 Covers different learning methods – including theory, practical training, or shadowing opportunities
💡 Important: Off-the-job training is not unpaid time or extra hours—it is part of your contracted working time and an essential part of your apprenticeship.
The Importance of Off-the-Job Training & Your Employer’s Responsibilities
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’re here to support you throughout your apprenticeship journey, ensuring your off-the-job (OTJ) training is effective, manageable, and meets all requirements. We work with employers to make sure training is structured, compliant, and beneficial to both you and your workplace.
How We Support You:
✅ Clear guidance on how OTJ training fits into your apprenticeship.
✅ Help with tracking and evidencing your training hours.
✅ Flexible learning options to fit around your work schedule.
📩 Need support? Contact us today to find out how we can help you make the most of your off-the-job training and apprenticeship experience.
🚀 Invest in your future and develop the skills you need to succeed!