Hi,
Looking for direction,
I am looking to obtain eMBA via SLA pathway and have requested my employer to see if they can nominate me for that programme so that I can apply and join. I have personally chosen Henley as they are near me and have been recommended as a good option if you want to progress eventually to eMBA (to their flexible MBA stage 3).
What options do I have if my employer will not be willing to nominate me for that course (given the current market conditions or any other reason), is nominating via my own organisation an option worth exploring? or will that be viable and legal?
If not what options?

The rules cannot be complicated, so I suggest you read them. I thought you had to be employed by the nominating organization, although part-time employees can participate.

You need to be employed at least 30 hours a week, says MMU. https://www.mmu.ac.uk/media/mmuacuk/content/documents/apprenticeships/Apprentice-Employer-Brochure.pdf.pdf

Thank You Duncan,
That means I cannot nominate via my own organisation

Well, your own company could employ you for 30 hours a week at the minimum wage. That would be £16,265 so in the year you would pay £1,581 in tax and NI. That's still cheaper than £14,000. Even with the taxes and payment for the MBA top-up, you'd still be getting your MBA less than half price.

Actually around 6800£ in NI and taxes if I consider both jobs, 50% savings via that route :)

Could you offer your employer a pay cut equal to that amount if they sponsor you?

I don't know, my HR is not responding so I will have to be persistent and get an answer with options either nominate, sponsor or I am ready to take a pay cut for the same amount if that helps them!

[Edited by eMBAA on Feb 23, 2024]