Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships give you the chance to get out into the real world and get started on your chosen career. Our Apprenticeship courses are a brilliant way to gain new practical and professional skills, on the job training, nationally recognised qualifications and earn money at the same time. The Technical Certificate and Key Skills build your confidence and knowledge as an all rounder. They will help you understand your chosen occupation and enhance your employment prospects.
What is an Apprenticeship?
Businesses often need employees who can combine technical knowledge with practical skills. Apprenticeships are a route by which you can begin a career in a chosen industry, learn practical skills and achieve nationally recognised qualifications. Apprenticeships are government backed training schemes aimed primarily at people aged between 16-24, however in certain cases funding is available for older people.
You will receive work-based training from your employer and will normally attend our training centre one day a week. You will spend most of your time with the employer getting your industry knowledge and experience. You will be working alongside experienced staff who will teach you new skills and build your industry knowledge. Once you have started your apprenticeship, an assessor will visit you and your employer at work on a regular basis and be on hand when you need them. You will study towards a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ), Key Skills qualifications and Technical Certificate.
Are there different types of Apprenticeship?
Yes, there are different types of Apprenticeship available; Apprenticeships and Advanced Apprenticeships. The one which is right for you will depend on your experience and the opportunities in your chosen area.
How long does an Apprenticeship take?
There is no set time to complete an Apprenticeship as they vary widely in content and size. The length of time taken will depend on your ability and your employer’s requirements. An Apprenticeship will usually take anything from 12 to 24 months. Some may take less, but some Apprenticeships can take up to three years, so a large degree of commitment on your part is necessary.
Do I need to be employed to start an Apprenticeship?
If you already have a job with a small company, large employer or within your family business, you may be eligible to receive free training and gain qualifications as an Apprentice. However, you may be looking for a post, preferring to work and earn an income rather than staying in full-time education. We can help you to find the kind of work you are looking for and then provide the support and training necessary.
How much will I get paid?
You will be guaranteed a minimum wage of £2.60 per hour and a minimum of 16 hours per week with some employers paying more based on experience
What sort of person is accepted on an Apprenticeship?
You need to be:
- Committed
- Prepared for further study
- Realistic about the amount of work you may have to do
- Happy to work as both part of a team and as an individual
- Able to use your own initiative
- Able to show that you have fully researched the career area you want to work in and that you’re the right person for the job
- Aware of your responsibilities to both yourself and the company who employs you
What qualifications do I get when I’ve finished my Apprenticeship?
You’ll get a package of qualifications when you finish your Apprenticeship - a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ), a Technical Certificate such as a BTEC National Diploma or a City & Guilds Progression Award, and Key Skills qualifications. Apprenticeships lead to either an NVQ Level Two or an NVQ Level Three.
How do NVQs relate to other qualifications?
There are five levels of NVQ:
- Level 1 = 5 GCSEs at grades D-G
- Level 2 = 5 GCSEs at grades A-C
- Level 3 = 2 A levels/1 vocational A level
- Level 4/5 = HNC, HND and degree level
Can I progress on to Further or Higher Education?
Most Apprenticeships offer a potential progression from level two to a level three Advanced Apprenticeship. Advanced Apprentices can progress onto a level four industry qualification or Higher Education qualification such as a HNC.
For more information on Apprenticeships contact Jeremy on 01706 631417
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