Employers · 6 min read
A checklist for Somerset employers hiring their first apprentice
Everything a Somerset employer needs to know before hiring their first apprentice in 2026 - funding, provider choice, contract and onboarding.
By Jack Frampton, Marketer at Queen's College, Taunton · Published 15 July 2026
Hiring your first apprentice in Somerset is genuinely straightforward - but the sequence matters. Here's the 2026 checklist.
1. Pick a standard
Search Institute for Apprenticeships for the right occupational standard.
2. Pick a provider
Bridgwater & Taunton College or University Centre Somerset (UCS) handle most Somerset apprenticeships.
3. Sort funding
Levy payer? Draw down. Non-levy? 95% government co-fund.
4. Advertise + interview
Post on Find an Apprenticeship (GOV.UK) - your provider will do it for you.
Frequently asked questions
- How much does it cost to hire an apprentice in Somerset?
- Non-levy employers pay 5% of training costs; wage is separate and typically £14k–£18k.
- How long does the process take?
- 6–10 weeks from starting to having an apprentice in seat.
- Do I need my own HR team?
- No - providers handle most compliance.
- Related?
- See our <a href='/blog/hiring-a-marketing-apprentice-uk'>marketing apprentice hiring guide</a>.
Explore more on this site
- Apprenticeship Hub →Free mentoring, vacancy help and guides for school leavers, parents and employers.
- Marketing Portfolio →Campaign design, sports graphics, editorial work and photography from Queen's College, Taunton.
- Video →Behind the scenes video and short-form apprenticeship content.
- About Jack Frampton →Marketer, apprenticeship advocate and Taunton keynote speaker.
About the author
Marketer at Queen's College, Taunton · Apprenticeship advocate
Jack Frampton is a marketer at Queen's College, Taunton, working across digital marketing, SEO, design, content and photography. He came through the apprenticeship route himself, founded the Taunton Apprenticeship Evening and speaks in schools across Somerset and the South West about apprenticeships as a route into marketing. He offers free mentoring for school leavers, parents and employers.
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