Introduction

Off-the-job (OTJ) training is a vital part of degree apprenticeships in England, requiring apprentices to dedicate 20 per cent of their learning to activities outside their usual work responsibilities (IfATE, 2023). This time is essential for skill development and overall growth. In the 2022/23 academic year, 752,150 individuals participated in apprenticeships in England, with 337,140 starts and 162,320 achievements (Powell, 2024). OTJ training helps address the skills gap across industries, but many apprentices struggle to maximise this training. By focusing on effective time management, reflective learning journals and digital tools, apprentices can enhance their OTJ experience and boost their career readiness.

Time management: Structuring OTJ training for success

To effectively manage time and optimise OTJ training, which is often self-directed, the literature suggests three key strategies.

1. Set Clear Learning Objectives: According to IfATE (2023) apprentices would benefit from starting OTJ training with clear, measurable goals aligned to apprenticeship standards and personal growth. This aligns with broader recommendations on personalised learning pathways.
2. Prioritise Learning Tasks: The Education and Skills Funding Agency (2023) emphasises that focusing the OTJ log with high-priority tasks optimises skill development.
3. Create a Structured Schedule: Goodall (2023) indicates that a structured schedule is key for apprentices to maintain consistency and meet the 20 per cent OTJ training requirement effectively.

Reflection and learning journals: Deepening knowledge through reflection

‘Reflection is a key component of OTJ training, as it helps apprentices integrate theoretical knowledge with practical skills, enhancing both understanding and real-world application.’

Reflection is a key component of OTJ training, as it helps apprentices integrate theoretical knowledge with practical skills, enhancing both understanding and real-world application (Education and Skills Funding Agency, 2023). The following strategies can be used to support effective reflection:

1. Maintain a Learning Journal: A learning journal could help apprentices track progress, reflect on challenges and consolidate knowledge. It provides a comprehensive view of development, useful for assessments by showing how theory is applied in the workplace.
2. Engage in Regular Reflection: Regular self-reflection allows apprentices to connect theory with practice, deepening their understanding. Asking questions like ‘What did I learn?’ helps track growth and identify areas for improvement (TQUK, n.d.).
3. Seek Feedback from Mentors: Sharing reflections with mentors offers valuable feedback and guidance. Mentors can suggest improvements, helping apprentices focus on key areas and enhancing their OTJ learning.

Using digital tools: Enhancing learning with technology

Goodall (2023) suggests that apprentices can use digital tools to enhance OTJ training by organising and tracking their progress. Regular use of digital tools helps apprentices stay on schedule and avoid falling behind on their required training hours. Examples of such digital tools include:

3. Learning Management Systems (LMS): Open Elms provides a structured environment where apprentices can access training materials, track their progress and interact with instructors. These systems allow apprentices to manage their learning more efficiently, ensuring they stay on top of their OTJ tasks.
4. Educational Apps: Apps such as Coursera, LinkedIn Learning and Udemy offer apprentices a wide range of additional learning resources. These platforms enable apprentices to explore new topics, earn certifications and deepen their understanding of their field. According to the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE, 2023), using supplementary online resources can enhance an apprentice’s overall learning experience.
5. Time Management Tools: Tools like Google Calendar, Trello and Todoist are excellent for helping apprentices manage their OTJ hours efficiently. These tools enable apprentices to schedule activities, set deadlines and track progress, ensuring they meet the 20 per cent OTJ requirement. Goodall (2023) highlights that regularly logging and tracking OTJ hours is crucial to avoid added pressure later. Using time management tools helps apprentices stay focused on their goals and manage their hours efficiently.

Conclusion

To maximise OTJ training, apprentices should actively manage time, engage in reflection and use digital tools (Education and Skills Funding Agency, 2023). Setting clear goals, keeping a reflective journal, and staying organised with technology enhances their learning and helps meet the 20 per cent OTJ requirement. Educators play a crucial role by guiding apprentices in setting goals, promoting reflective practices and teaching time management. This support helps apprentices optimise their training experience and develop skills valuable for their future careers.

References

Education and Skills Funding Agency. (2023). Off-the-job training guide 2023/24. https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6530efdb92895c000ddcba2b/2023_10_OTJT_Guide_v5_-_23_24_Rules_v1.0.pdf

Goodall, M. (2023). What is off-the-job training (OTJ) and how does it affect you? (Blog post). The Marketing Trainer. https://themarketingtrainer.co.uk/blog/what-is-off-the-job-training-otj/

Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education [IfATE]. (2023). Training raising the standards. Raising the standards / Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education

Powell, A. (2024). Apprenticeship statistics for England. House of Commons Library. https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/sn06113/

Training Qualifications UK [TQUK]. (n.d.). Off-the-job training. https://www.tquk.org/off-the-job-training/