Apprenticeships

What is an apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a nationally recognised training programme which combines real work with learning and training. Apprenticeships offer work-based training programmes and are a fantastic way to boost yourself into a career when you have finished school. Apprentices earn a wage and work towards a work-based qualification such as National Vocational Qualification (NVQ).

Who can do an Apprenticeship?

Anyone from the age of 16 who are not in full-time education can do an apprenticeship; however some apprenticeships may require minimum entry requirements. In Scotland, there are no minimum entry requirements. You must also be a UK resident if you intend on doing an apprenticeship.

What can I do an Apprenticeship in?

There are over 190 types of Apprenticeships across a range of industry sectors, from engineering to tourism. More than 130,000 employers are currently offering Apprenticeships, so there are plenty of opportunities out there for you.

Apprenticeships fall into three categories:

• Apprenticeships
• Advanced Apprenticeships
• Higher Apprenticeships

How long do they take?

Apprenticeships usually take between one and four years to complete, however it varies depending on what type of apprenticeship you do and the ability of the apprentice.

How much do I get paid?

Wages for apprentices may vary however; all employed apprentices must receive a wage of no less than £95 per week.

What qualifications do I get from it?

Apprenticeships can help you gain more qualifications such as:

• A National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) at Level 2 or Level 3
• Key Skills qualifications
• A Technical Certificate such as BTEC
• Other qualifications needed for particular occupations.