Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships are work-based training programmes which give Apprentices skills, knowledge, experience and nationally recognised qualifications.

Apprentices develop the majority of their skills and knowledge in the workplace, working alongside experienced and skilled staff. In some cases, they also have the opportunity of attending “off-the job training” sessions at one of our local training centres.

Although the majority of Apprenticeships are on a paid basis, there are opportunities for Apprenticeships on a voluntary work-experience basis, subject to attending work/college for a minimum of 30 hours a week.
Apprentices give employers the opportunity to take on additional staff who can be developed in the way that they want to run their businesses.

What are employers required to do?

As a very brief guide and to ensure that apprentices are given a positive training experience, employers are expected, as a minimum to:

  • Interview and select apprentices for new vacancies
  • Agree a training plan for each apprentice
  • Nominate a Mentor to support apprentices
  • Take part in monthly reviews of the apprentice’s progress and to plan future learning opportunities and activities
  • Allow apprentices to attend off-the-job training sessions, when invited
  • Comply with UK legislation and meet Apprenticeship expectations as set out by the Learning and Skills Council.

What’s the first step you need to take as an employer?

Contact one of our Employer Liaison Professionals with:

  • an outline of the vacancy (eg. job and personal specification)
  • details of any member of your existing staff who wishes to start an Apprenticeship

What qualifications are included in an Apprenticeship?

There are 3 levels of Apprenticeships:

  • Apprenticeships are Level 2 programmes. They include a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) Level 2, Key Skills and in some cases a Technical Certificate.
  • Advanced Apprenticeships are Level 3 or Level 4 programmes. They include a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) Level 3 or Level 4, Key Skills and in most cases, a Technical Certificate.

Who can do an Apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships are open to people aged 16 years and over who:

  • are employed, self-employed or volunteering
  • are not doing a course elsewhere
  • meet UK residency requirements
  • are not graduates

What subjects are Apprenticeships available in?

For more information on specific Apprenticeships, please click on the links below:

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