Frequently Asked Questions

Before deciding which pathway is correct for you, or even which sector or industry you would like to pursue as your career, we advise that you take a 'Skills Assessment' to determine your area of interest and your current skillset.  You can do this via 'The National Careers Service' website.  

An Apprenticeship is a genuine job, with training, meaning you can earn while you learn and gain a nationally recognised qualification.

Apprentices are an employee of an organisation, so they’re paid a salary and entitled to all the same employment rights as other employees.  They are paid at least the relevant national minimum wage, but it’s worth being aware that the average apprentice wage is often higher than the minimum hourly rate required by the Government.

An apprenticeship means the employee learns and gains valuable experiences.  Alongside on-the-job training, apprentices spend at least 20% of their working hours completing classroom-based learning with a college, university or training provider which leads to a nationally recognised qualification. 

Find out more on our Apprenticeship page.

Each employer/provider will have a different application process, so you’ll need to read the vacancy carefully and ensure you understand any deadlines and next steps.

You will usually be asked to submit an application form or a CV and answer some questions about yourself.  If you get through the first stage, you’ll be invited to an interview and or some type of assessment depending on the employer.  It’s a good idea to keep track of any applications you have on the go and their deadlines.

Colleges and providers have their own list of vacancies. The majority of apprenticeships should be advertised on the .GOV Find an Apprenticeship site (this isn’t always the case for some apprenticeship providers or employers).

The application process varies by institution, but here are some general guidelines:

Application Window: applications for sixth form usually open in September of the year before entry and remain open until the end of the spring term.

Application deadline: deadlines vary, but most are between December to February.

Application Process: applications are made online to each school or college. Applicants need to:

• Fill in their personal details

• Fill in their predicted grades

• Provide a personal statement

Although it is strongly encouraged that you submit your application by the deadline, some colleges may still consider those returned after the deadline.  However, applications submitted after the deadline will be considered after those who applied on time. 

T-Levels, are relatively new qualifications for 16-to-19-year-olds.  Each course lasts two years and is roughly equivalent to three A-levels.

The qualification includes a mixture of both classroom learning and on-the-job experience, with a work placement of at least 315 hours - or about nine weeks - making up around 20% of the course.

T-Levels are designed for students who want an alternative to A-Levels but do not wish to take an Apprenticeship, were around 80% of a student's time is to be spent with an employer.

Final grades are based on a combination of exams, coursework and the completion of the work placement.

Find out more here.

• Agriculture, Environmental and Animal Care

• Business and Administration

• Construction

• Creative and Design

• Digital

• Education and Early Years

• Engineering and Manufacturing

• Health and Science

• Legal, Finance and Accounting

• Catering and Hospitality - Catering (September 2025 Onwards) 

• Sales, Marketing and Procurement - Marketing (September 2025 Onwards)

You must have a minimum of five GCSEs (Grades 4-9), including English and Maths.

Most colleges provide a dedicated bus service.  Please contact colleges directly to enquire about the transport options available. 

Colleges more than three miles from your home address usually provide a bus pass free of charge.  Please contact colleges directly to enquire about the funding options available.