Apprenticeships

What is an apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a paid job where you learn and gain valuable workplace experience while working towards a recognised qualification.

Apprenticeships combine:

• Paid employment
• On-the-job training
• Study and training
• A recognised qualification or occupational standard

As an apprentice, you are an employee and have employment rights.

Apprenticeships are available across a wide range of industries, including business, finance, engineering, construction, healthcare, digital, law, marketing, hospitality and many more.

Apprenticeship Levels

Apprenticeships are available at different levels:

Foundation apprenticeship
An entry-level apprenticeship designed to help young people develop the skills and experience needed for employment and progression to a further apprenticeship.

Level 2, Intermediate
Equivalent to GCSE level.

Level 3, Advanced
Equivalent to A-level level.

Levels 4 and 5, Higher
Equivalent to higher education qualifications such as HNCs, HNDs and foundation degrees.

Levels 6 and 7, Degree
Degree apprenticeships can lead to a bachelor's or master's degree while you are employed and earning a salary.

How do apprenticeships work?

You will spend most of your time working with your employer while completing training and study.

The exact balance between work and study depends on the apprenticeship and employer.

At the end of the apprenticeship, you will have gained practical experience, and the skills and knowledge required for the role.

Some apprenticeships can also provide a pathway to further study or progression to a higher apprenticeship level.

How much do apprentices earn?

Apprentices are paid for their work and must receive at least the applicable National Minimum Wage.

The amount you earn will depend on your age, the stage of your apprenticeship and your employer. Many employers pay considerably more than the minimum.

Always check the salary offered when applying for an apprenticeship.

Degree Apprenticeships

Degree apprenticeships combine employment with university-level study.

You can gain a bachelor's or master's degree while working and earning a salary. The employer normally covers the cost of the apprenticeship training.

Degree apprenticeships are available in a growing range of careers, although opportunities and entry requirements vary between employers.

They can be highly competitive, so it is important to apply early and make your application as strong as possible.

Finding an Apprenticeship

Apprenticeship vacancies are advertised throughout the year although some of the larger companies advertise in the Autumn/Winter term.

The main government website for finding apprenticeships is: Find an apprenticeship

You can search by job role, employer, location and apprenticeship level.

Some large employers also advertise vacancies directly on their own websites and/or on LinkedIn

Applying for an Apprenticeship

Apprenticeship applications are similar to job applications.

You may need to complete:

• An online application
• Questions about your skills and experience
• Online tests
• A telephone or video interview
• An assessment centre
• A face-to-face interview

It is important to research the employer and the role before applying.

Think about the skills and experience you can demonstrate and use specific examples wherever possible.

Remember

You can apply for university and apprenticeships at the same time. You do not have to choose one route before you start exploring the other.

Useful Websites

Find an apprenticeship https://www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk/
Search and apply for apprenticeship vacancies.

UCAS https://www.ucas.com/apprenticeships

Search for university courses and explore apprenticeship opportunities.

Amazing Apprenticeships https://www.amazingapprenticeships.com/
Information, advice and resources for students, parents and teachers.

National Careers Service https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/
Explore careers and find out which qualifications and routes can lead to different jobs.

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/
Search for apprenticeships and explore employers and career opportunities.