Time off for study or training
If you’re aged 16 – 17 and you:
- have not got 5 GCSEs at grade A* - C (or an NVQ Level 2, or equivalent qualification)
- have left full-time education and are now in a job which offers little or no training
you could be entitled to paid time off work to study or train for a nationally recognised Level 2 qualification that will help improve your future work prospects.
Certain employees aged 18 also have the right to reasonable paid time off work to complete study or training already started.
What and where can I study or train?
Study and training can take place in a college, at work, on the job, with an approved training provider - or a combination of these. Although the qualification you go for must help you in your future career, it doesn’t have to be connected to the job you’re currently doing.
How much paid time can I take off?
The law says you can have ‘reasonable’ time off – but there is no fixed rule about what this means. It could mean day release to college or it could mean setting aside some time at work for private study. The actual amount of time you get will depend on your circumstances, the requirements of the course or training and your employer's business needs.
You’ll be paid for the time that you’re studying at your normal hourly rate.
Sounds great - what do I have to do?
Your first step is to talk to your employer. If you don’t want to do this yourself, get in touch with your Connexions Personal Adviser who can approach your employer on your behalf.
What if my employer refuses to give me reasonable time off for study or training?
If your employer unreasonably refuses to give you time off for study or training - or fails to pay you - you could take your complaint to an employment tribunal. Speak to your Connexions Personal Adviser if you need further advice.
