Combine work and study Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships
An apprenticeship is a paid job where the employee both studies to earn a qualification and works to gain valuable work experience.
Alongside on-the-job training, apprentices spend at least 20% of their working hours completing classroom-based learning with a college, university or training provider which leads to a nationally recognised qualification. Apprenticeships are an exciting paid option for anyone wanting to gain experience, upskill or change career because they offer the chance to earn a wage whilst they work and study.
An apprenticeship includes:
- paid employment with holiday leave
- hands-on-experience in a sector/role of interest
- at least 20% off-the-job training
- formal assessment which leads to a nationally recognised qualification
Who can apply?
An apprenticeship is a great paid work opportunity for people over the age of 16 in England who are:
- early in their career
- looking to upskill in their current job
- looking for a career-change
- not in full-time education
There are over 600 different types of apprenticeships. No matter what career you’re interested in, there’s likely to be an apprenticeship for you: gov link.
You will earn a qualification from your apprenticeship.
The 4 different apprenticeship levels are:
Apprenticeship level | Level | Equivalent education level |
|---|---|---|
Intermediate | 2 | GCSE |
Advanced | 3 | A Level |
Higher | 4 or 5 | Foundation degree and above |
Degree | 6 or 7 | Bachelor’s or master’s degree |
Apprenticeship benefits
There are many benefits to completing an apprenticeship, which include:
- experience and skills development
- a nationally recognised qualification (with no tuition fees)
- employee benefits and a wage
- exposure to industry professionals
You can search and apply for apprenticeships in England on GOV.UK.
Useful apprenticeship websites
- All about School Leavers – www.allaboutschoolleavers.co.uk/
- Amazing Apprenticeships – Student Zone – https://amazingapprenticeships.com/student-zone/
- Find an Apprenticeship – https://www.apprenticeships.gov.uk/apprentices/browse-apprenticeships#
- Rate My Apprenticeship – https://www.ratemyapprenticeship.co.uk/
- The National Apprenticeship Show – https://nationalapprenticeshipshow.org/
