Apprenticeships can be a great way to earn while you learn! To complete an apprenticeship you need to be 16 years and over. Apprenticeships involve being in active employment and completing related training alongside this. You can't complete an apprenticeship if you are in full time education. The training for an apprenticeship can be set aside each week in the work environment or it can involve ‘day release’ to college or another training provider.
An apprenticeship is a valued and recognised qualification for many industries. There are lots of employment sectors to choose from for example:
• Accountancy
• Business administration
• Construction & building trades
• Child care
• Digital
• Customer service
• Hairdressing & barbering
• Adult health & social care
• Hospitality & catering
• HR services
•IT
• Management
• Motor vehicle
• Social media & digital marketing
• Supporting teaching and learning
• Team leading
Apprenticeships are offered at different levels:
This includes a work-based learning qualification, such as an NVQ/Diploma Level 2, functional skills and in some areas a relevant technical certificate diploma. This provides the skills needed for a chosen career and allows entry to Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeships.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: These can vary depending on the industry sector. Some employers don’t specify any formal qualifications, but generally applicants should have either five GCSEs at grade 4 (A*-C) or an equivalent Level 2 qualification in the same vocational subject.
This includes a work-based learning qualification such as an NVQ/Diploma Level 3, functional skills and technical diploma.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: Some industries want apprentices who have three or more GCSEs, but other employers don’t specify any formal qualifications. To start this programme you should ideally have five GCSEs at grade 4 (A*-C) or have completed an Apprenticeship at Level 2 and have been assessed to be ready to progress to Level 3.
These are for those who have completed a Level 3 qualification.
Higher Apprenticeships are a nationally accredited work-based programme designed to meet employers’ needs at a higher skill level and include qualifications at levels equivalent to a degree.
Apprenticeships can take between one and five years to complete depending on the level, the apprentice’s ability and the industry sector. As a guide, an Intermediate Level 2 Apprenticeship usually takes around 12 to 18 months and an Advanced Level 3 Apprenticeship around 18 to 24 months. Higher apprenticeships usually take longer.
Pay will vary depending on the type of apprenticeship but there is an apprenticeship national minimum wage in the UK which applies to all 16 to 18-year-olds and to those aged 19 and over in the first year of an apprenticeship. Find out more here: https://www.gov.uk/apprenticeships-guide/pay-and-conditions
National Apprenticeship Service (to research and apply for vacancies)
Spend time completing your application and preparing for your interview/the selection process- fully research the company you are applying to and reflect on how you meet what they are looking for.
Start building related experiences before you need to apply! Building related experience in your industry will help demonstrate your commitment, enthusiasm and knowledge for your chosen sector.
Always have a back up plan! It is always sensible to have a backup plan of a full time college course or another pathway just in case you’re not successful this time.
Book a one-to-one appointment with one of our friendly careers advisers.