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What is an Apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships are another way to get a qualification- combining full-time work and study into one. You will work between 30-40 hours a week, and earn a minimum wage.
Part of these hours will include working towards a qualification, usually doing one day (on average) a week in an education setting. There will be the expectation (just as there is in college) for you to finish assignments outside of this time.
Apprenticeships can take a minimum of a year a to complete, but depending on the level this could take longer, such as degree apprenticeships. At the end there may be the chance to stay on at the company or complete further study.
There are no age limits on apprenticeships, they are available for everyone.
From day one you will be a member of staff within the company and training to work in your chosen sector!
Find out more about apprenticeships by watching our video
The Reality Check
Apprenticeships are highly competitive and have strict entry requirements just like any job might!
You will expect to go through an application process to be successful. You may even be applying for a vacancy alongside 15 other people!
Some sectors or roles have fewer apprenticeships available and you may need to apply differently.
An apprenticeship might be right for you if you are:
Ready to get into industry and prepared for the challenge of working and studying full-time.
Have/be working towards the necessary entry requirements for the role (including Maths and English GCSEs or other qualifications).
Keen to develop your skills in your chosen sector.
What to do next
If an apprenticeship is the right route for you, start to look for available vacancies using our helpful links to support you.
Prepare to apply! Make sure you have a suitable CV and cover letter ready to use. Remember- some industries may have different application methods for their vacancies, so make sure you're using the right one!
Start to apply for apprenticeships- be prepared to make a lot of applications!
If you have a successful application you may need to have an interview before you are offered a position. Land the interview- land the job!
Struggling to get an apprenticeship?
If you can't find a vacancy, you might be looking in the wrong place or perhaps the roles in that sector might be low in number. There will not always be vacancies throughout the year. You will need to dedicate a lot of time to your search and use a variety of searching methods to be successful. Make sure you have a back up option if you're unsuccessful!
It may be your application or interview skills need to be improved. You can book an appointment with a careers adviser to help you with both of these. If you are eligible, you could also consider doing an employability programme to prepare you for your next steps.
More information on apprenticeships
Apprenticeships Draft.pdfWant to stay at Sheffield College? See our vacancies below
Not sure? Hear the benefits of apprenticeships explored by real apprentices!
Where else to find vacancies
For your searches, don't forget to include: local college websites, large employers in your sector, small business owners, social media, Linkedin, shop windows, with friends and family... You could also go straight to local training providers (below)
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