As an apprentice, you have the same rights as other employees. However, there are standards to ensure that apprentices are paid fairly and are not required to work excessive hours.
The terms and conditions of your apprenticeship will be specified in a contract known as an apprenticeship agreement, which you must sign before commencing your employment.
Apprentices have the same rights as other employees in similar jobs. Here are a few examples:
- Paid time off
- Sick leave
- Daycare voucher programmes
The government sets a minimum wage for businesses to pay their workers every year. This is known as the minimum wage, which ensures that apprentices (and regular employees) are fairly paid for their efforts.
If you are under 19 (or are still in the first year of your apprenticeship), there is a minimum apprenticeship rate, although employers may and often do pay more.
If you are above 19 (or have completed your first year of apprenticeship), the minimum pay is much higher.
A full-time apprentice is also entitled to at least 20 days of paid holiday each year. There are other bank holidays such as Easter and Christmas. But, again, this is the absolute minimum; some employers may provide you with more paid time off.
Nobody is legally obligated to work more than 48 hours weekly (or 40 if under 18). However, you are also entitled to a certain number of hours off each week and between shifts. To understand your rights, speak with your manager, mentor, or union representative.