Off the job (OTJ) training is defined as learning which is undertaken outside of the normal day-to-day working environment and leads towards the achievement of an apprenticeship. 

Off the job training is based on the learner’s normal working hours – this is calculated at 20% of their working hours capped at a minimum requirement of six hours per week. This can be allocated across the course duration in any format. 

The idea is that the candidate is using their knowledge, skills and behaviours and applying them during working hours. 

Over the duration of the apprenticeship 20% of their time should be allocated to the training [it does not mean they need to take six hours in a block per week]. 

Off the job training does not mean the learner must be out of the workplace, however it does mean that they need to be undertaking activities related to their apprenticeship programme, that will help them towards the completion of their course. 

As an employer, it’s your responsibility to support the learner by ensuring they have adequate time to undertake the OTJ. 

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Off the Job (OTJ) Examples

Off the job training will depend on the focus of the apprenticeship. Training should develop the learner as an employee and must involve learning new skills.

Activities could include:

  • Shadowing team members at work to learn new skills and behaviours
  • Attendance at workshops, training days and webinars relevant to the apprenticeship
  • Completion of online learning through AC Training’s Bud system
  • Industry visits, conferences and other external training (outside of the workplace) that develops the skills and professional ability of the learner
  • Practical training to use programmes, technology or other relevant tools
  • Learning support and time spent writing assignments

Your apprentice will receive support from their skills coach on how to log off the job training. Historically we have found that apprentices have no issue with getting sufficient off the job training time, the largest problem is the recording of that time.

For a more detailed explanation please see our OTJ Video.