To gain a rounded understanding of what apprenticeships involve, we chatted with Vicky, Compliance Manager from Britannia Windows to explore the value apprentices bring to their business, as well as what students take away from the experience!

1) What types of apprentices do Britannia Windows take on?

Our business has many different areas, from Admin to Accounts and even practical skills in Manufacturing and out on-site Installations. The window industry is ever changing and growing with new products and regulations that staff need to learn, and apprenticeships give a good base knowledge to young people looking to start in our industry, or even if they aren't sure what they would like to do!

2) How do these apprentices benefit your business?

Apprentices often comes to us straight from school or another college course, so they are a blank canvas ready to learn! We've found they are adaptable and like to challenge themselves. We look for dynamic people who want to progress and stay within our company.

3) What does the application and recruitment process look like when hiring apprentices?

We always come through Weston college as they offer a smooth and easy to use process. They help with advertising the positions and pre-screening applications. It's a straightforward process that just works well!

4) What sort of support do you receive from Weston College during this hiring process?

The staff who support the process are friendly and helpful. They always work on the best interests of the student and the employer to make sure it runs smoothly and both sides are happy.

5) What kind of support do you receive from Weston College during the student's apprenticeship?

There is always someone to contact if we have any questions. The tutors keep in touch with the apprentice to make sure they are on track and schedule meetings with the apprentice's line manager, so we are all on the same page.

6) Are there any standout success stories of past or current apprentices at Britannia Windows?

Yes! We have several ex-apprentice's still with us! Some have moved up to management roles and others have moved departments within the business to continue to development and learn new skills in different areas! We currently have a new apprentice who is exceeding expectations as someone who has never worked in an office before!

7) How do apprenticeships benefit the apprentices in the long run, beyond just earning a qualification?

Apprenticeships are not just about the qualifications, but they allow the student to experience real life situations. Part of the employer's role is to guide the young person and help them learn and grow in all areas, not just academically. We work hard to support our team to achieve and develop, even after they have finished their apprenticeship, as you never stop learning in our industry!!

8) What would you say to any businesses considering taking on an apprentice?

If you need dedicated and well-trained staff, then apprenticeships are a really good tool to achieve this in the long term. Investing in young people helps build confidence and as you support them, they become great team members who will continue to grow with your business.

If you would like to find out how to bring an apprentice into your business, click here!

This week is National Apprenticeship Week, which brings together everyone passionate about apprenticeships and skills to celebrate the value, benefit, and opportunity that they bring.

To kick off National Apprenticeship Week, we spoke with Sharna, our Apprenticeship Recruitment & Skills Marketing Lead, to tackle the most common questions we get about apprenticeships!

What is an Apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is an excellent way to begin your career, offering the opportunity to gain practical work experience while earning a wage. As an apprentice, you will enjoy benefits such as paid holidays, one-on-one support, on-the-job training, a salary, and opportunities for career progression.

How do I apply for an Apprenticeship?

Applying for an apprenticeship is similar to applying for a traditional job. Unlike college or university, some apprenticeship positions are advertised throughout the year. The application process may vary depending on the apprenticeship, but typically, you will need to submit a CV and participate in an interview.

How do I find an Employer for my Apprenticeship?

You can search and apply for suitable vacancies on the Find an Apprenticeship Service (Find an apprenticeship – GOV.UK). Additionally, you can directly approach employers to enquire about opportunities within their businesses. Some employers may also advertise apprenticeship vacancies on their own websites.

Do I need to Attend College?

Many apprenticeships can be completed at your workplace, with a college trainer visiting to support you in setting new learning tasks. Apprenticeships with a technical component, such as engineering and construction trades, will require regular attendance at college to develop practical skills.

Will I get Paid during my Apprenticeship?

Yes, as of April 2025, the National Minimum Wage for apprentices will increase from £6.40 to £7.55 per hour. However, many businesses offer higher wages to attract the best candidates. Numerous apprentices earn significantly more than this minimum rate.

Who can do an Apprenticeship?

You can start an apprenticeship if you are:

• 16 years old or older, with no upper age limit
• Not in full-time or part-time education
• You can also begin an apprenticeship even if you already hold a qualification, such as a degree.

What Support can the Apprenticeship Recruitment Team offer at Weston College?

The Apprenticeship Recruitment Team provides one-on-one impartial advice and guidance, CV support, interview and assessment centre tips, and application assistance.

To find out more about our apprenticeships on offer, click here.

Last night, we hosted our annual Apprenticeship Open Evening, offering prospective students the chance to engage with the 19 employers in attendance and our apprenticeship team to explore the exciting opportunities available through apprenticeships. We had an incredible turnout of 303 attendees, all eager to explore our range of over 100 apprenticeship opportunities across a wide range of sectors, including Engineering, IT, Business Administration, Construction, and Motor Vehicle, to name just a few.

Many thanks to the following employers for attending:

• Ministry of Defence 
• GKN Aerospace 
• Shared Apprenticeships 
• Airbus 
• Babcock International Group 
• National Composites Centre 
• Rolls-Royce 
• Avon Fire and Rescue Service
• UHBW 
• Avon and Somerset Police 
• Howards Motor Group 
• Taylor Wimpey 
• Thatchers Cider
• Turner and Townsend 
• The Bristol Port Company 
• Cadbury House 
• YMCA
• WPA 
• Baker Hughes

If you would like to find out more about apprenticeships, click here.

If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College here. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.