Apprenticeships combine work and training to offer a programme, which includes:
- a minimum wage set at a national rate
- a real job with an employer and contract of employment
- nationally recognised qualifications.
The Apprenticeships form a key part of work based learning. Quite simply, they are a partnership between the learner, learning provider and the employer. Apprenticeships are available to learners of all ages ranging from school and college leavers (sixteen to eighteen years of age) to the Adult Apprenticeship (19 years of age plus)
The Apprenticeship can help those who:
- are taking the first steps of their career
- may be looking to move into a new occupation
- are hoping for career progression
- need formal training to support practical knowledge
- want to broaden their expertise and skills
- would like to increase knowledge and confidence.
Each Apprenticeship has an equivalent education level:
Intermediate – equivalent to 5 GCSE passes
Advanced – equivalent to 2 A level passes
Higher – can lead to Level 4 and above, or a foundation degree
Apprenticeships take 1 to 4 years to complete, depending on the level.
If you feel you’re not ready for an Apprenticeship yet, a Traineeship is a course designed to prepare you for one.