Apprenticeships

If you want to earn while you learn and you've got a clear idea of the job you'd like to do, then an Apprenticeship could be a good route to take.

What does an apprentice do?

You'll work and earn money while building up skills and gaining nationally-recognised qualifications. On the job, you'll work as an employee, alongside experienced staff members. Off the job, you'll learn with a training provider, such as a college, on a day- or block-release basis. Your employer or trainer will assign you a mentor to guide you through any difficult times.

Are there different levels of Apprenticeships?

Yes, there are two levels: Apprenticeships, which are equivalent to five good GCSEs, and Advanced Apprenticeships, which are equivalent to two A-Levels.

Who can take this qualification?

Apprenticeships are open to all age groups over 16, whether you've just left school or are already working. You just need to be living in England and not taking part in full-time education. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have their own schemes. Entry requirements vary – some technical Apprenticeships, for example, require high GCSE grades in maths, English and science. To start an Advanced Apprenticeship you should ideally have five GCSEs (Grade C or above) or have completed an Apprenticeship.

What can I do an Apprenticeship in?

There are 180 types of Apprenticeships available across more than 80 industry sectors. They range from office-based jobs, such as business administration, to careers that take you outdoors, like forestry. More than 130,000 employers currently offer Apprenticeships.

How long do they take?

There is no set time to complete an Apprenticeship, but they usually take between 12 and 36 months. Some, such as engineering, can take up to five years.

How much will I get paid?

From August 2009, you're guaranteed to receive £95 a week. However, according to the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS), the average apprenticeship wage is actually £170 (net) per week.

What if I'm already working?

You should talk to your employer to see if you can start an Apprenticeship at your existing place of work. If they agree, you'll need to find a local learning provider where you can complete your training.

Will I have to pay any fees to do an Apprenticeship?

No. The National Apprenticeship Service will pay the full cost of your training if you are aged 16–18. Your employer may be expected to contribute to your training costs if you are older.

Is it easy to get an Apprenticeship?

There is a lot of demand for Apprenticeships and there have been reports in the media that funding for them is running out. However, the National Apprenticeship Service has guaranteed that everyone under 24 who finds an Apprenticeship through its vacancy service or through a learning provider will have their training funded. For more information visit the National Apprenticeships Service website.

What qualifications will I receive?

All Apprenticeships lead to National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs)  and key skills qualifications. Some Apprenticeships also offer BTEC or City & Guilds certificates.

Where will an Apprenticeship take me?

The qualifications you receive as an apprentice will be recognised by any employer, anywhere in the country. If you want to go on to further study, an Advanced Apprenticeship is accepted by some universities as an entry qualification for a Foundation Degree.

Am I guaranteed a job at the end of my Apprenticeship?

No, but a survey by the National Apprenticeship Service earlier this year found that 89% of apprentices secured a job immediately after their Apprenticeship ended, very often with the employer they trained with.

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