Everything You Need to Know About Working with a Training Provider (Like IPS!)
If you’re thinking about hiring an apprentice—or you already have and want to make sure they’re getting the right support—one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right training provider. And if that phrase already sounds a bit overwhelming, don’t worry. You're not alone.
At IPS International, we’ve worked with hundreds of businesses across different industries, helping them build successful apprenticeship programmes that are simple, effective, and tailored to their needs. So, in this blog post, we’re breaking down what it actually means to work with a training provider, why it matters, and how we make the process as smooth as possible.
What is a Training Provider?
Let’s start with the basics. A training provider is an organisation that delivers the educational side of an apprenticeship. While your apprentice learns on the job with your team, we take care of the structured training, covering the knowledge, skills and behaviours set out in the apprenticeship standard.
Think of it as a partnership: you provide the real-world experience; we provide guided learning and support to help your apprentice progress, achieve and thrive.
What Does a Training Provider Actually Do?
A good training provider does more than just deliver lessons. At IPS International, we handle a wide range of tasks, including:
Designing a tailored training plan that suits both your business and the apprentice’s role.
Delivering off-the-job training, either in person or remotely, depending on the course.
Providing ongoing support and reviews to keep your apprentice on track.
Managing the necessary paperwork and compliance, including funding and documentation for the Apprenticeship Service.
Preparing your apprentice for their End Point Assessment (EPA) to ensure they complete their qualification successfully.
We’re here to make your life easier, not add more admin to your day.
How Does the Partnership Work in Practice?
Here’s what you can expect when you partner with IPS International:
1. Initial Consultation
We’ll start by getting to know your business. What are your goals? What roles are you recruiting for? Do you already have someone in mind for the apprenticeship, or are you looking for candidates?
2. Finding the Right Programme
We’ll help you choose the most suitable apprenticeship standard for the role—whether it’s a Multi-Channel Marketer, a Customer Service Practitioner, an Engineer, or something else.
3. Recruitment Support (if needed)
If you’re looking for the right apprentice, we can support your recruitment process—advertising vacancies and shortlisting candidates.
4. Enrolment & Onboarding
Once you’ve selected your apprentice, we’ll handle the enrolment process, ensure funding is in place, and deliver an engaging induction to get them started.
5. Ongoing Training & Support
Your apprentice will receive regular training sessions - either at our training centre or online - as well as reviews and progress checks. You’ll also have access to a dedicated IPS point of contact for any questions or updates.
Why Partner with IPS International?
There are lots of training providers out there, but here’s what sets us apart:
✅ Experience Across Industries
From engineering to business support, marketing to customer service—we’ve worked with employers of all shapes and sizes, and we understand the unique demands of different sectors.
✅ Personalised Approach
We’re not a one-size-fits-all kind of place. We tailor our support to fit your business goals and your apprentice role. That means better outcomes for both of you.
✅ Clear Communication
No jargon, no confusion. Just honest advice, helpful updates, and a team that’s always at the other end of the phone.
✅ Hassle-Free Processes
We know employers are busy. That’s why we make the process as straightforward as possible—from funding advice to training schedules.
✅ Long-Term Relationships
We’re here for the long haul. Many of our employer partners have worked with us for years, training multiple apprentices and developing future leaders within their teams.
Common Questions We Get From Employers
???? “Do I need to know how to apply for funding?”
Nope—that’s where we come in. We’ll guide you through the process and help you access government funding where eligible.
???? “What if the apprentice needs extra support?”
We’ve got it covered. Our trainers and mentors are experienced in supporting learners with a wide range of needs, and we’ll keep you in the loop every step of the way.
???? “How much time will I need to commit as an employer?”
Your main role is to provide a good working environment, regular supervision, and opportunities for the apprentice to put their learning into practice. We’ll do the rest.
Partnering with a training provider doesn’t need to be complicated, and with IPS International, it isn’t.
Whether you’ve never hired an apprentice before or you're looking to build a more structured development pathway within your team, we’re here to help. Our goal is to make the process clear, supportive and genuinely beneficial for both your business and your apprentice.
???? Want to speak to someone? Call us on 01634 298808
???? Or email: [email protected]
Let’s build the future of your business, together.