Do apprentices count as employees?

Most young people on Apprenticeships and Advanced Apprenticeships have employed status (currently around 85%), which means they have more employment rights than those who don’t. All employed apprentices are covered by the terms and conditions contained in their contract of employment and any relevant employment legislation.

Learners will usually spend a minimum of 30 hours a week on their Apprenticeships. You should receive the time off you need to study or train. Learners are entitled to their terms and conditions in writing. There should also be a contract of employment or training agreement in place.