Apprenticeships - What are they? Who are they for?

  • Are you looking to earn while you learn?
  • Are you looking for a great way to get your foot on the ladder in your dream profession?

Whether you are looking for your first job or a change in career an apprenticeship could be the best option for you! There are no upper age limits with apprenticeships, so it is never too late to go for it!

According to the latest statistics from the Department for Business, Innovation, and Skills, 90% of apprentices are offered permanent employment either during their apprenticeship or upon graduation, proving what a great route into your dream job they can be! To find more details about apprenticeship pay rates, holiday entitlement etc click here: https://www.gov.uk/become-apprentice/pay-and-conditions

What is an Apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16.

An apprenticeship is a paid job which allows you to combine valuable work experience, whilst working towards a nationally recognised qualification. Alongside on-the-job training, apprentices spend at least 20% of their paid working time completing classroom-based learning with a college, university or training provider.

What level of Apprenticeship is right for me?

There are different levels of apprenticeships available to you. Depending on your previous qualifications, you could undertake the following levels:

  • Level 2 Apprenticeships are known as intermediate apprenticeships and are similar to GCSE standard.
  • Level 3 Apprenticeships are known as Advanced apprenticeships and are generally considered to be equivalent to two A level passes.
  • Level 4 Apprenticeships are also known to be equivalent to the first year of an undergraduate degree, or a Higher National Certificate (HNC).
  • Level 5 Apprenticeships are equivalent to a foundation degree, or a Higher National Diploma (HND).
  • Level 6 Apprenticeships are equivalent to Degree Level.
  • Level 7 Apprenticeship are equivalent to Master’s Level.

Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to gain qualifications without accruing debts. You will have a workplace Mentor who will support you through your apprenticeship journey and you will also spend 20% of your time in ‘off the job training’ where you will gain further knowledge from industry experts, this often takes the form of one day a week with a training provider.