Using the Apprenticeship Service: A Guide for Employers
You may still hear it called the Digital Apprenticeship Service, or DAS. Today it is simply the Apprenticeship Service (AS): the government's online platform where employers manage apprenticeship funding, training providers and apprentice records. Once your account is set up, a few regular habits will keep everything running smoothly.
What the Apprenticeship Service is for
Viewing and managing apprenticeship funds, whether from the levy, co-investment or a levy transfer.
Choosing training providers and setting what they can do on your behalf.
Approving apprentice records, including start dates, standards and agreed prices.
Tracking the apprentices you employ and any changes to their programme.
Everyday tasks for education employers
Checking your funds
Levy-paying trusts and larger schools can see monthly funds entering the account and when they are due to expire. Non-levy employers normally need to reserve funding before, or within the same calendar month as, enrolment unless a levy transfer is being used. Keeping an eye on this helps you plan cohorts, protect start dates and avoid losing unused funds.
Approving apprentice details
When your provider adds an apprentice, you will be asked to review and approve the record. Check names, start date, the apprenticeship standard and the price before approving. Payments to the provider cannot begin until both sides have agreed.
Managing changes
If an apprentice changes role, takes a break in learning or leaves, the record needs updating. Let your provider know quickly so the details stay accurate for both of you.
Good practice
Keep more than one account user so approvals are never stuck.
Review permissions each year, especially after staff changes.
Diarise a termly check of funds, approvals and apprentice records.
Use the same email address you actually monitor for notifications.
How NCE helps
NCE prepares apprentice records for your approval, keeps you informed of anything that needs action and supports you with changes during the programme, so the system works for you rather than becoming another admin burden.
Ready to plan your next cohort?
Talk to the NCE employer team.
Whether you are shaping a business case, comparing providers or planning a trust-wide programme, we will help you get from question to confident decision.