Ceri Geary

OTJ and absence from work due to injury

Created

None

Hi, we have an apprentice off work due a knee injury who would like to continue work on her apprenticeship and so accrue OTJ hours. In the past being off work for more than a month would necessitate a BIL but this is no longer stated in the funding rules unless it is related to parental leave and KIT days.
The absence of this guidance makes me think we are ok to authorise this but it still feels a bit wrong!
Does anyone else allow this?

Ceri

Replies

No one has replied to this post.


Jessica De Melo

Haven't come across this but I don't think we would allow this on the basis if the apprentice is off work then it is not taking place during normal working hours and would fall short of OTJ requirements?

Steve Hewitt

I'd be tempted to go the other way myself? They're still *employed*, just because they can't work due to injury shouldn't be an *automatic* BIL if they can still do some learning. Conversely, are they sure they're up to it and might they be better off on a BIL? Would be keeping a close eye on their hours though, so you can effectively replan when they are back in the workplace.

Wayne Hosking

I'd agree with Steve and have had several situations similar to what you have mentioned. Ultimately are they still in learning and covering the active learning rules, i.e one a month for day release etc. The longer they have a break then the more disengaged they might become, just got to weigh up the pros and cons. Also depends how long term they will be off work with the employer and ensure they are still employed under an apprenticeship agreement etc.

(Edited)