Bringing an Apprentice into your organisation is one of the most rewarding investments you can make. It strengthens your team, builds loyalty, and helps shape the next generation of professionals in the Animal Care and Veterinary Science sector. Apprenticeships combine practical experience with structured learning allowing you to develop talent that grows alongside your business.
At iPET Network, we work closely with Training Providers and Employers to ensure every apprenticeship experience is smooth, compliant, and results-driven. Here’s how to get started.
Identify the skills and roles within your organisation that would benefit from an Apprentice. Consider the specific tasks and projects they could work on and the skills they need to learn.
Apprenticeships in the UK are built around national standards, each outlining the knowledge, skills, and behaviours required for a particular role. You can explore available standards on the Skills England website.
iPET Network is approved to deliver End-Point Assessment for several animal-care standards, including:
We are also expanding into complementary standards such as Customer Care, Team Leader, and Business Management — designed to strengthen leadership within the animal-care industry.
A high-quality Training Provider will help you recruit, train, and support your Apprentice. iPET Network collaborates with many experienced providers. Together, we ensure that Learners receive the right mix of workplace training and theoretical learning.
Register as an employer on the Apprenticeship Service to access government funding and manage apprenticeship details. Once registered, create a clear job description that outlines responsibilities, learning goals, and development opportunities.
Advertise through your Training Provider, social media, job boards, and your own website. During interviews, look for enthusiasm, commitment, and an eagerness to learn.
Once you’ve selected your Apprentice, a formal Apprenticeship Agreement must be completed. This outlines the duration, pay, working hours, and the training plan. iPET Network recommends Employers seek guidance from the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) to ensure compliance with HR and employment law.
Your Training Provider will design a structured plan that includes on-the-job experience and off-the-job training hours. Assign a mentor within your organisation — someone who can coach, support, and monitor progress.
Employers must provide the required off-the-job training time each week, ensuring Apprentices can complete their studies successfully.
Apprentices are entitled to the national minimum apprenticeship wage as set by the UK Government. Employers must also provide statutory benefits such as paid holidays and pension contributions. You’re free to offer additional perks to attract and retain high-quality Apprentices.
Regular reviews and feedback sessions are vital to track progress and ensure the Apprentice is developing as planned. Apprentices will work towards a qualification and complete an End-Point Assessment (EPA), which evaluates their competence.
Programme durations vary:
At iPET Network, we provide robust assessment preparation resources, digital tools, and one-to-one guidance to make the process smooth and stress-free for both Employers and Apprentices.
Once your Apprentice completes their programme, you can choose to offer them a permanent position, extend their contract, or support them in progressing to higher-level training. Remember that after 12 months, all Apprentices must be paid at least the national minimum wage for their age group, even if they are still completing their EPA period.
Employers can access government funding for apprenticeship training through the Apprenticeship Service. Additional incentive payments may be available for hiring young people or those in specific circumstances.
Always ensure you remain compliant with UK employment law, apprenticeship regulations, and health and safety requirements.
Share your Apprentice’s achievements – internally, on social media, and within your local community. Promoting success stories not only strengthens your reputation but also attracts future talent and demonstrates your commitment to developing people and the industry.
iPET Network is an Ofqual-regulated Awarding Organisation specialising in Animal Care and Veterinary Science qualifications. We bring together Employers, Training Providers, and Apprentices to raise professional standards across the sector.
Our End-Point Assessment services are designed to be supportive, transparent, and efficient, ensuring every Apprentice and Employer achieves success with confidence.
To learn more about taking on an Apprentice or becoming an approved Training Provider, contact the iPET Network EPA Team:
📞 0800 433 4700
📧 epao@ipetnetwork.co.uk
🌐 www.ipetnetwork.co.uk
EDUCATION FOR PEOPLE, FOR PETS, FOR THE FUTURE
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