Apprenticeships explained

Giving you the chance to study, whilst still earning money, an apprenticeship is an ideal way to gain a nationally recognised qualification.

Regardless of whether you’re just leaving school and looking for your first job, or already working and want to try something new, an apprenticeship is a great way to study. You will be working alongside existing experienced staff and learn your skills ‘on the job’ in addition to being assessed by industry professionals, many of whom have enjoyed successful careers in the sectors they now teach.

• What is an apprenticeship?

  An apprenticeship is a study programme involving on-the-job training with an employer and some off-the-job training provided by a training provider such as a college. Apprenticeship programmes are offered at entry level to an employment sector (Level 2 equivalent to 5 GCSE passes) all the way up to degree level (Level 7).

• What types of apprenticeships are out there?

  There are a huge range of apprenticeships available providing a huge number of opportunities for to anyone interested in getting into a new industry sector or developing their skills further in their chosen field. From Accounts Assistant Level 2 to Greenkeeper Level 5, a Customer Service Practitioner Level 2 to Veterinary Nurse Level 3. What’s more, new apprenticeship programmes are constantly being developed and released.

• What will I study?

  Your apprenticeship could also include:

  • The main qualification
  • Developing key industry behaviours
  • Functional skills (English, maths and potentially ICT)
  • An understanding of Employee Rights and Responsibilities

• How much college attendance is there?

  College attendance varies per programme and the amount will depend on the ways in which the apprentice needs to develop the skills and knowledge to successfully complete the programme, along with whether they need to upskill their English and Maths. There is a requirement for 20% of the training to be ‘off-the job’, which means they may need to attend College for one day every week during their programme. Alternatively, this off-the-job training could be delivered by Apprenticeship Assessors from the College visiting the workplace.

• How do I become an apprentice?

  You will need to hold a contract of employment within the industry and have a genuine interest in the work that you do. Anyone can be an apprentice, as long as you are over 16 years old, a UK resident and not taking part in full-time education.

• How do I get an apprenticeship?

  A good place to start looking for an apprenticeship is by signing up for a free account with the National Apprenticeship Service. All employers and training providers throughout England advertise their apprenticeship vacancies here, so it’s a fantastic source to not only see what type of apprenticeships are available and what they involve, but also to apply for the position through it too. You will need to set up your profile and complete an application form for each vacancy you apply for, so make sure you tailor each application to the role you are applying for.

  You could also search on some of the major job sites, being sure to include the word "apprentice" before the type of role you're looking for (for example, "apprentice bricklayer" or "apprentice administrator"). Alternatively, you could reach out to local employers you would like to work for and see if they are interested in hiring any apprentices.

• How much will I get paid?

  There is no set rate of pay for apprentices, with wages varying according to the employer, but this wage will not be below the National Apprenticeship Wage. You will also benefit from at least 20 days of paid holiday per year, plus bank holidays.

• Who will support me on my apprenticeship?

  Your employer and your training provider/College are responsible for your apprenticeship programme, your health and safety and any educational support you need to complete your training. If you have needed any support with your training, then you should approach your employer and training provider to discuss your needs. If there is anything required which the employer or training provider cannot provide, such as expert mental health support or financial advice, then they will provide you with alternative professionals you can speak with and support you with this. All apprentices can also approach the National Apprenticeship Service directly for advice and support.

• What are the career options?

  Apprenticeships offer a lot of choices in your career and, because they give you the skills which employers want, they can also be incredibly rewarding. Successful completion of an intermediate and advanced apprenticeship will give you valuable credits which can be used against future HNC, foundation degree or honours degree programmes.