News Articles & Guides

From August 2026, the government is introducing new and enhanced incentive payments for employers hiring apprentices. SMEs hiring under-25s could receive up to £5,000 or more in combined incentives — plus zero training costs. Here is everything you need to know.

Government funding for the Level 3 Team Leader Supervisor Apprenticeship and the Level 5 Operations Manager Apprenticeship has been withdrawn. Here is what has changed, why it matters, and what VQ Solutions is doing about it.

If you’ve spotted social posts flying around with #NAW2026, you’re not imagining things — National Apprenticeship Week 2026 runs from Sunday 9 to Saturday 15 February 2026.

As Christmas approaches, it feels like the perfect moment to pause and reflect on what has been a truly outstanding 2025 for everyone at VQ Solutions Ltd. This year has brought external recognition, programme growth, and exceptional results for our learners and employer partners.​

Stop relying on gut feel. This practical guide shows HR and L&D professionals how to use evidence-based practice with examples and CIPD 5CO02 guidance to apply in your organisation.

From 1 August 2025 the rules on off-the-job training for apprentices change. This guide explains the key changes and gives practical steps employers can take to stay compliant and get the most from apprenticeship training.

If your pay bill is over £3 million you pay the Apprenticeship Levy through PAYE and the money sits in your DAS account. This practical guide explains how the Levy is calculated, how to use your funds and the expiry rules you need to know.

Earn your Data Cable ECS Gold Card in just one day with VQ Solutions’ Experienced Worker Assessment in Harrogate. Book now for expert network cable training!

The DfE has relaxed Functional Skills requirements for apprentices aged 19 or over at the start of their programme. This post explains who is affected, what employers must do and how VQ Solutions can help you adapt.

Choosing the right CIPD qualification doesn't have to be confusing. This guide compares Level 3, Level 5 and Level 7 so you can pick the best path for your HR career.

Harvard Referencing for CIPD assignments is a fundamental skill that will help all students work towards their possible grades. Learn more in this article.

Learn how multi-channel marketer apprentices can support audio-digital advertising activities and initiatives in all business types.

Online HR Training Courses are a simple way to achieve industry-recognised CIPD-accredited courses. VQ Solutions offers these courses.

Cabling apprenticeships offered by VQ Solutions are designed for new entrants to the industry and existing network cable installers looking to upskill.

Choosing the right CIPD Membership level is important as it helps determine your career path in the people professionals sector.

Discover which CIPD level is right for your HR career. Explore the benefits, course content, and suitability of each CIPD course.

The Level 4 Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Practitioner Apprenticeship is a 24-month programme designed for apprentices to develop the knowledge,

Corporate Social Responsibility Training: Why Your Organisation Needs a Fully Trained In-House Practitioner

Start your HR career with the CIPD Foundation Certificate in People Practice from VQ Solutions, gaining essential skills from expert tutors.

The Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability Apprenticeship offers a comprehensive exploration into the principles and practices of corporate responsibility.

Upon completing the Level 3 Multi-Channel Marketer Apprenticeship, you will be fully equipped with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience.

The Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability Apprenticeship offers a comprehensive exploration into the principles and practices of corporate responsibility.

Unlock your potential in people management with the CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma, now available as a stand-alone course from VQ Solutions.

The Level 4 CR&S Apprenticeship stands out for its comprehensive approach to developing skilled professionals ready to make a difference.

CSR-trained employees can identify potential risks related to social and environmental issues and develop strategies to mitigate them effectively.

Understanding ISO 26000 helps apprentices see the bigger picture of how businesses can positively influence societal change.

Learn how to craft an effective CV for your apprenticeship application with our step-by-step guide. Get started on your career journey today!

VQ Solutions has gained the prestigious CIPD accreditation. This allows us to offer standalone CIPD qualifications at Levels 3 and 5.

VQ Solutions has been awarded a "Good" by OfSTED following a full inspection between 04 - 07 February 2020. We are hugely delighted with the extremely positive

The Government Apprenticeship website is a great way to apply for apprenticeships – in order to apply though, you must make an applicant account. Take a look at our hints and tips below on how to make your application the best it can be! Contact

In April 2018, we saw an increase in the National Minimum Wages and the National Living Wage. The National Minimum Apprenticeship Wage also increased in April from £3.50 per hour to £3.70. There is a lot of confusion when it comes to

Apprenticeship pay rates are essential to help you make an informed decision about your future. These are set by the government annually.

The social media and digital marketing apprenticeship is in the process of changing to the new digital marketing apprenticeship. This is a significant change and will see a more employer-led qualification that will set out what the industry expects

What is the Apprenticeship Levy and who does it apply to? The government have devised a plan to increase the quality and quantity of Apprenticeships, as part of this they have introduced the Apprenticeship Levy. The Apprenticeship Levy is a tax that

The digital marketing apprenticeship was officially released today. The wait is over and we have clarification on what needs to be delivered for this new apprenticeship standard. Whilst we have had the standard for a while we now have the digital

Social media marketing strategies can get incredibly complicated. There always seems to be so much to do and so little time. However, there are ways to keep it simple once you know how. 1. Know your niche. You need to understand your niche market and any

There are some significant changes taking place with apprenticeships in England. Apprenticeships delivery has been framework based but apprenticeship providers will now need to switch to "Standards". Apprenticeship frameworks are made up of

Any employer wanting to gather more information about the benefits of employing an apprentice are invited to join us at Betty's Tea Rooms on 7th March 2014.