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Why choose Apprenticeships?
Why choose Apprenticeships?
Apprenticeships are a brilliant option for people of all ages to launch their careers in a huge range of exciting industries or upskill at various levels.
There are thousands of apprenticeship vacancies on offer, with more than 640 high-quality apprenticeships approved for use by employers – meaning someone could pursue a career as anything from a space engineering technician to a junior advertising creative.
Below you can find 5 reasons that you should consider an apprenticeship according to the Department for Education.
It's a paid job
You get high quality training
The wide range of choices on offer
It's rewarding
They continue to improve
What is an Apprenticeship?
What is an Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a paid job where you benefit from structured training whilst gaining valuable workplace experience. There are thousands of top-quality options out there now, with many apprenticeships and degree apprenticeships in leading companies, paying over £20,000 per year.
Alongside your on-the-job training, as an apprentice, you will spend a minimum of 6 hours a week on average in off-the-job training with a provider, such as a college or university. Here you learn the skills you need to become competent in your chosen occupation, a vital step to getting a full-time job in the future.
You can find more key information here.
Apprenticeship Levels Explained
Each level has it's own entry requirements.
You need to pay close attention to what each of them means...
Intermediate Level Apprenticeships:
These qualifications are also known as Level 2's, and generally require grade 5 in Maths and English to secure the role. To be competent in some trades, you must complete this level before progressing onto an advanced apprenticeship.
Advanced Level Apprenticeships:
These qualifications are also known as Level 3's, and are generally equal to two A-Levels. Entry requirements for these apprenticeships are normally 5 GCSE's grade 4 or higher including maths and English. Check with the training provider that you're eligible if you have already gained an A level in the subject.
Higher Level Apprenticeships:
These apprenticeships are classed as Level 4 or 5, which are a progression for year 13 leavers. This qualification is equivalent to a Foundation Degree, or HNC/HND. Entry requirements differ depending on the company, some expect GCSE's and others require A levels.
Degree Apprenticeships:
These apprenticeships can last between 3 - 5 years, through which you will achieve an Honours or Masters degree when you complete. You will require A levels, or a set number of UCAS points to be eligible for these programmes. Additionally, although all apprenticeships are paid, these roles, have a greater competitive salary and your employer pays the university fees.
DO NOT UNDERESTIMATE HOW COMPETITIVE DEGREE AND HIGHER LEVEL APPRENTICESHIPS ARE!
In 2020-21 recruitment, there were 3,600 degree apprenticeship starts compared to 50,000 applicants! Although more opportunities are becoming available, there are more applicants considering them as viable routes. You should always seek support from Miss Hasselby when applying for degree apprenticeships.
Finding Apprenticeships
A lot of apprenticeships ran by training providers, such as colleges and independent companies, upload their vacancies onto the government website.
This is a central location where you can find the key details of the apprenticeships, their closing dates and what the job will involve. The search feature also allows you to optimise your search so you only see what you are looking for.
Larger companies will also post their apprenticeships on their own websites as they have a large enough reach without needing to use a central site. This is why it is important to consider who you would like to work for and explore their sites to identify potential opportunities.
You can access the government site using the link in the image below.
Browse apprenticeships before you apply!
Browse apprenticeships before you apply!
Use this search to browse which apprenticeships are available based on your interest and location.
Do we have specialist apprenticeship support at DSFC?
Yes!
Miss K Hasselby
Miss K Hasselby
Miss Hasselby is the Progression Lead who specialises in all things apprenticeships!
She can help you with:
Searching for apprenticeships
Applying for apprenticeships
Developing your interview skills and preparing you for interviews
Preparing you for application centres
Exploring alternative routes or back up plans
Any bespoke support that you may need.
To book a meeting with Miss Hasselby, you can use the link here or you can contact her via email with katherine.hasselby@durhamsixthformcentre.org.uk
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