BEST provides funding for foundation and advanced apprentices, to assist in the payment of college fees. In many instances, for learners between 16 and 18, BEST financial support will cover the majority, or all of the course fees. A lower level of funding is available for apprentices over 19 who complete their course before their 25th. BEST will also advise on the selection of an appropriate college and course, as fees vary greatly from one college to another.

Financial support for academic year 2007/08 in England & Wales DOWNLOAD PDF

Financial support for academic year 2006/07 in Scotland DOWNLOAD PDF

Financial support for academic year 2006/07 in Scotland Highlands and Islands DOWNLOAD PDF

The funding provided by BEST is made available by the Learning & Skills Council (LSC). BEST will organise this financial support and help assist in a company’s application. In Scotland, Modern Apprenticeships are funded by Local Enterprise Companies (LEC’s).

For help with your application, please contact us on 01628 607 800 and our Training Services Co-ordinator will be happy to help.

BEST does not set the rates of pay offered to the apprentice. It is up to you, the employer, to agree a level of pay with the trainee. We do, however, recommend that employers have a step rate of pay based on milestone qualification achievements. The HVCA can provide guidelines on rates of pay, if needed.

BEST is funded from income derived from the LSC’s/LEC’s and does not charge employers or apprentices for the services it offers.