What is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a real job where you learn, gain experience and get paid. By the end of an apprenticeship, you’ll have the right skills and knowledge needed for your chosen career.
If you are looking to start work straight away and prefer to learn in a working environment, then this could be the route for you. This is your opportunity to impress, so you will need to work hard, show dedication, determination and enthusiasm. You will gain work experience in an industry setting, whilst gaining a qualification which can be used for UCAS points, should you wish to consider university in the future. Apprenticeships help provide you with the relevant work experience you need to find future jobs in your chosen area.
What are the entry requirements?
Entry requirements vary depending on the apprenticeship but all require that:
• You are 16 or over
• You live in England and are not taking part in full-time education
• You will be expected to attend off-the-job training which is away from the workplace
If you are aged 16-18 and haven’t already achieved grade 9-4 at GCSE level, you will need to study functional skills in English and maths alongside the apprenticeship.
If you are aged 19+ and haven’t already achieved grade 9-4 at GCSE level, it will be at your employers discretion if you study English and maths.
Why should you consider an apprenticeship?
- Earn a salary whilst gaining valuable work skills
- Develop your skills knowledge and behaviours to specialise in your chosen field and stand out from the crowd
- Develop strong working relationships with employers to broaden your career prospects
- Increase your future earning potential
- Open up possibilities aligned to your career aspirations and develop you as an individual.
How does the process work?
We will make sure you are applying for the right apprenticeship level and sector, tailored to your own career objectives.
You will be supported with enrolment and induction by both your employer and your college provider.
Working together with your employer, we agree on an Individual Learning Plan (ILP) which reflects the outcome of your initial assessment and will set our learning objectives and milestones. It also covers how the development of relevant Knowledge, Skills, Behaviours and Attitudes (KDBAs) will be achieved as you work towards your qualification.
20% of your working week must be spent on ‘off the job’ training. This can be at college, in the workplace or self-directed, and can include formal training, online training, project work and research. There is something to suit every learner and it is aimed at giving you the best experience to develop your KSBAs and enhance your future career options.
During your reviews you will discuss how you’re finding your course in addition to equality, health and safety and safeguarding. A key part of these reviews is ensuring your apprenticeship still matches with your career goals.
You’ll also work on setting SMART targets against your apprenticeship Knowledge, Skills, and Behaviours (KSB) to ensure evidence is provided and KSB’s are being met.
Lucas and Brogan – Plumbing
“An apprenticeship is hard work, but worth it. It gives you security in knowing you’ve got skills for life and you’re earning money whilst you’re still training.”
“I originally wanted to be in a completely different industry, but realising I’d have to do A levels and university really put me off. I knew the tutor as he worked with my dad, so it feels like my journey has come full circle, and I’ve ended up doing something I love.”
Are you an employer looking to take on an apprentice?
For more information about apprenticeships, and how they could benefit your business, speak to a member of our team.
The Etc. for Business team are passionate about making a positive impact within the North East and beyond. Join us in shaping the next generation of talent.
