The Department for Education (DfE) has announced key updates to how off-the-job (OTJ) hours—now referred to as active learning—will work in apprenticeships. These changes are expected to take effect from 1st August 2025, although some aspects, like the shorter minimum duration, are still pending legislation.
Here’s a quick summary of what’s changing and how it could affect your apprenticeship programmes.
Key Changes at a Glance
• Fixed Hours Instead of a Percentage
OTJ learning will now be calculated as a set number of hours, rather than a percentage of working time. These hours will be agreed before enrolment and will vary by apprenticeship level and subject.
• Minimum Duration May Reduce (Not Yet Law)
The minimum duration may change from 12 months and 7 days to 8 months and 7 days, but this is not confirmed until legislation is passed. If approved, shorter apprenticeships will require more OTJ (active learning) hours each week.
• Active Learning Now Includes More Activities
The definition of OTJ (active learning) has expanded to include:
o Structured and essential revision
o Coaching, mentoring, shadowing, research
o Classroom or virtual learning
o External training days and industry events
Real-World Examples
Example 1: Level 3 Team Leader Apprenticeship
If legislation is passed, this could be completed in 8 months and 7 days, requiring around 12 hours of active learning per week to meet the required hours. The shorter duration means more intense learning.
Example 2: Level 5 Operations Manager Apprenticeship
With a longer duration of 22 months, the apprentice may only need 6 hours per week of active learning. This offers more flexibility and less weekly pressure.
Why This Matters for Employers
• You’ll need to plan and track active learning hours more precisely.
• Depending on the apprenticeship, you may need to adjust workloads or provide additional support to ensure apprentices meet the required learning hours.
• The number of hours and expectations may shift again as Skills England begins reviewing and redesigning apprenticeship standards.
How Linden Can Help?
At Linden, our leadership team has carefully reviewed these upcoming changes and based on our experience, we've devised a recommended duration for each apprenticeship programme. This will be discussed in detail prior to onboarding and agreed upon in partnership with both the apprentice and their employer, ensuring the structure suits your business needs and provides an effective learning experience.
With the changes set to take effect from 1st August 2025, now is the time to review your apprenticeship delivery plans.
Linden can:
• Help you understand the new OTJ (active learning) rules
• Support you in planning apprenticeships based on the new hourly requirements
• Provide tools and guidance for tracking and delivering effective learning
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