Time off Work for Study or Training – Your rights

IF:
> You are 16 or 17
> You are in full-time work.
> You have not achieved the following qualifications:

- GCSEs at grades A*-C
- an NVQ level 2
- a BTEC First Certificate or Diploma
- or any qualification which is the same level as those listed above.

THEN:
> You have a right to paid time off for study or training.
> If you start your qualification before you reach 18, you have a right to finish it off after your 18th birthday.

You can work towards Level 2 in small steps. This means that initial study or training could lead to a qualification at below Level 2.

If you are not sure about your qualification level then contact your local Connexions Centre in Camberley, Epsom, Guildford, Redhill, Staines, or Woking.

> You are entitled to this right as soon as you start work for any employer.

> You can take a “reasonable” amount of time off, the Government expect it to be about one day a week.

> The exact time you can have for study/training will take into account your course requirements and how the time off will affect your employer’s business.

> You should be paid for the time that you are studying or training. You are entitled to receive payment for your time off at your usual hourly rate.

> You will have to take up employment related study or training. You will need to talk to your employer about this. If you and your employer cannot agree on a course then ask the Connexions Service for advice.

> You can take up study or training at work, at a college or with a training provider. The Government can contribute to the costs of the study or training, where employers cannot afford this.

> Help can also be available for support costs such as books, equipment, travel or childcare expenses, and assistance for young employees with disabilities.

> If your employer refuses to give you paid time off to study or train, under this legislation you can take them to an Employment Tribunal.

Contact your Personal Advisor or Connexions Centre for more help