21/03/2024Apprenticeship Information
What is an Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a way of learning while working in a real job role and receiving a salary. Often this comes with additional mentoring and line manager support. Of the contracted working hours, 20% is spent completing classroom-based learning with a college, university or training provider which leads to a nationally recognized qualification.
This mix of hands-on experience and structured learning means your child will gain the skills needed for their chosen occupation. This valuable experience and understanding of the world of work boosts their CV and gives them both personal and professional confidence. Even if they choose a different career path after the apprenticeship, they would have gained many transferable skills which gives them a competitive edge in other job applications.
Salary and Employee Rights
Apprentices, being employees, have the same rights as other staff, including entitlement to holiday leave and their learning hours are protected. They receive at least the national minimum wage, although the average apprentice wage typically exceeds the government’s minimum hourly rate. Apprentice wages are often higher than the minimum hourly rate required by the government.
Apprenticeship Levels
Different apprenticeship levels equate to different qualification levels.
|
Name |
Level |
Equivalent Educational Level |
|---|---|---|
|
Intermediate |
2 |
5 GCSE passes at Grades 9 - 4 or A* - C |
|
Advanced |
3 |
2 A level passes |
|
Higher |
4, 5, 6 & 7 |
Foundation degree & above |
|
Degree |
6 & 7 |
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree |
Qualifications
Qualifications you can achieve include:
|
Functional skills |
GCSE - level qualifications in English, maths and IT |
|
National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) |
From Level 2 (comparable to five GCSEs) up to Level 7 (similar to a postgraduate degree) |
|
Technical certificates |
Such as BTEC diplomas, City and Guild Progression Award etc |
|
Academic qualifications |
Including a Higher National Certificate (HNC), Higher National Diploma (HND), foundation degree or the equivalent of a full Bachelor’s degree |
End Point Assessment
Apprenticeships can last 1 to 5 years, depending on their level. They culminate in an end-point assessment (EPA), an impartial evaluation by an independent organization. The EPA assesses whether the apprentice has acquired the skills, knowledge, and behaviours outlined in the apprenticeship standard. This typically involves a practical demonstration of skills and a discussion with an assessor, showcasing the apprentice’s learning and proficiency in their chosen occupation.
Entry Requirements
Apprenticeships in England are open to individuals over 16 not in full-time education. Created by employers and training providers, entry requirements vary at the employer’s discretion. The application process resembles a job application, and employers may offer flexibility, such as providing a Functional Skills qualification if the applicant lacks a pass in Maths and English GCSE levels.
Types of Apprenticeships
Most job sectors provide apprenticeship opportunities at various levels. Here are some examples:
|
Land-based |
Sports and Fitness |
Education |
Manufacturing |
|
IT |
Customer Service |
Childcare |
Law (Paralegal, Legal Administrator, Solicitor |
|
Construction |
Telecommunications |
Animal Care |
Hospitality and Travel |
|
Retail |
Hair and beauty |
Engineering |
Energy and Renewables |
|
Business |
Environmental |
Mechanic |
Transport, Logistics and Warehouse |
|
Finance |
Health and Social |
Aerospace |
Creative, Digital and Media |
How to find and apply for apprenticeships
Finding an apprenticeship is remarkably similar to finding a job. They are usually advertised by the employer where you can apply directly to the company. This typically involves submitting a C.V., cover letter and/or answering some questions. If they get through this first stage they will be invited for an interview.
Some vacancies can be found through local colleges and training providers or contact them for help and advice.
Search online platforms designed with apprenticeships in mind. Here are some popular platforms:
