What is an apprenticeship?

If you want to enter the world of work and still continue with your education then the apprenticeship route could be for you. As an employee you will earn a wage and work alongside experienced staff to gain job-specific and transferable skills.

Off the job, usually on a day-release basis, apprentices receive training to work towards nationally recognised qualifications.

Anyone living in England, over 16 years-old and not in full-time education can be an apprentice.

Apprenticeships can take between one and four years to complete depending on the level of apprenticeship, the apprentice’s ability and the industry sector. The minimum salary is £2.65 per hour; however, many apprentices earn significantly more.

Why choose an Apprenticeship?

• Earn a salary
• Get paid holidays
• Gain a nationally-recognised qualification
• Receive on-the job training
• An alternative progression route to degree level qualifications
• Entitlement to a student discount card (NUS)
• Learn job-specific skills
• Access to the Library Plus – the College’s resource centre
• Access to gym facilities at the College
• Take part in enrichment activities such as free theory driving lessons, basketball and social events.

FAQs

Do I need to attend college?
For the majority of our apprenticeships you will not need to attend college. A great deal of our training takes place in the workplace

Will I be paid?
Yes you will. The amount will depend on which employer you secure employment with.

How long should the apprenticeship take to complete?
Most apprenticeships take anywhere between 12 - 18 months.

Do I get holidays?
Yes, as an employee of any company you are entitled to the statutory minimum of 20 days paid holiday per year.

Are all the jobs local?
Our apprenticeship vacancies are across the region, including; Bristol, Taunton, Bridgwater, Clevedon, Nailsea, Portishead, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire.

What is the minimum hours an apprentice has to work?
16 hours a week is the minimum an apprentice has to work in order to achieve the qualification, but we recommend at least 30 hours a week.

Once achieved what is the qualification equivalent to?
Level 2 is the equivalent to 5 GCSEs at Grade A-C or 1 A Level. Level 3 is equivalent to 2 A Levels. Level 4 and 5 are equivalent to a Foundation Degree.

Can I get additional support if I have learning difficulties?
Additional support is available to all apprentices who have been identified as having additional learning needs.

Are there any costs involved?
Text books and uniforms for some sector areas will need to be purchased by the apprentice, but in the main there is no cost for anyone aged 16-18. Anybody aged 19+ will be part funded, please

Any other questions?
If you have any further questions call the Apprenticeship team at the Business Enterprise Centre on 01934 411 594.