Training: key differences in Scotland and Northern Ireland

Updating author: Nicola Stibbs, Consultant editor (Scotland): Gillian MacLellan, consultant editor (Northern Ireland): Gareth Walls

Scotland

The law relating to training obligations that applies in England and Wales extends to Scotland.

There is a difference between Scotland and England in relation to the right to paid time off for study or training for 16- to 17-year-olds who meet certain criteria.

Section 63A of the Employment Rights Act 1996 provides that a qualifying young employee in Wales and Scotland who has not achieved the prescribed "standard of achievement" is entitled to time off to undertake study or training leading to a "relevant qualification". In Scotland and Wales, the right to time off for training for 16- to 17-year-olds should be paid at the normal hourly rate in accordance with section 63B of the Employment Rights Act 1996.

Section 63A(5A) of the Employment Rights Act 1996 excludes certain 16- to 17-year-olds in England from the right to paid time off.

The Right to Time Off for Study or Training (Scotland) Regulations 1999 (SI 1999/1058) define the standard of achievement that applies in Scotland and the bodies that can award a relevant qualification in Scotland.