Apprenticeships combine real work with training and study. Being an apprentice isn’t the same as being a college or university student. You won’t just study and gain new knowledge as an apprentice, you’ll be putting what you learn straight into practice. Apprentices don’t have to pay tuition fees either.
What is an apprenticeship?
As an apprentice you’ll:
It can take between one and six years to complete an apprenticeship, depending on:
- the apprenticeship you choose
- your apprenticeship level
- your previous experience
If an apprentice needs to take a break from their learning, it could take them longer to complete their apprenticeship.
Who can be an apprentice?
You can apply for an apprenticeship if you’re:
- 16 or older
- not in full-time education
- live in England
If you don’t live in England, you can search for apprenticeships in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland.
What are the different apprenticeship levels?
There are four apprenticeship levels and each one has an equivalent education level:
Level 2
These apprenticeships provide basic knowledge and skills for specific jobs and are equal to GCSEs.
Level 3
These apprenticeships offer more specialised knowledge and skills and are equal to A levels.
Levels 4 to 7
These apprenticeships focus on higher-level professional skills and can be equal to a foundation degree, a Higher National Certificate (HNC), or a Higher National Diploma (HND).
Levels 6 to 7
These apprenticeships lead to either a full bachelor's or master's degree.Some apprenticeships require certain qualifications, for example GCSE English and maths. You may be given extra training to meet these qualifications. You may also have to meet academic requirements to apply for a higher or degree apprenticeship.
When you complete your apprenticeship, you’ll achieve the equivalent education level. For example, if you complete a level 3 apprenticeship, you’ll achieve the equivalent of an A level.
What will I earn as an apprentice?
Apprentices are entitled to minimum rates of pay. What you earn depends on:
- the apprenticeship you’re doing
- your employer
- your role
- your age
- what year of an apprenticeship you’re in
Apprentices are entitled to the National Minimum Wage rate for apprentices if they’re aged:
- 16 to 18
- 19 or older and in the first year of their apprenticeship
If you’re 19 or older and have completed the first year of an apprenticeship, you’re entitled to the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage rate for your age.
Apprenticeships care leavers’ bursary
Apprentices aged 16 to 24 who are in care or are care leavers could be entitled to a £3,000 bursary. Read more about the apprenticeships care leavers’ bursary.
FAQs
I want to use this apprenticeship as an opportunity to gain practical work experience that will build on my academic training. I also read about the growth prospects for apprentices on your company website and how you internalise those who successfully complete their apprenticeship tenure.
How do I pass my apprenticeship interview? ›
To make sure you're prepared, you should:
- research the apprenticeship and the organisation.
- practice by doing a mock interview.
- check where and when the interview is.
- get to the interview early.
- dress appropriately and stay focussed.
- ask questions if you don't understand.
Let's take a look at the benefits of apprenticeships for employees in more detail:
- Gain hands-on experience. ...
- Benefit from support systems and learning aids. ...
- Get paid to learn. ...
- Gain industry-recognised qualifications. ...
- Get a feel for the work environment. ...
- Improve your employability. ...
- Enjoy student discounts.
For example, Public speaking: “I am really keen on improving my public speaking skills. I believe it's a really important skill to have, especially when it comes to giving presentations and sharing ideas in meetings. I really like that this apprenticeship encourages collaboration which will help me open up.”
Why are you interested in this position? ›
The best way to handle this question is to think about what your current career trajectory is and how this role in this company fits in to help you achieve your ultimate goals. To enhance your answer, provide general ideas about the skills you want to develop and things you want to accomplish.
Why do you think you are a good fit for this role? ›
For example:I believe I am an excellent choice for this role because I have the required experience and expertise to help your company grow its customer base and revenue. I am confident of adding significant value to the company's revenue within a few months of joining.
What should I say on an apprenticeship application? ›
Say which apprenticeship you would like to apply for and where you found it. Show you have researched the company and the content of the apprenticeship they are offering. Say something that acknowledges the vision and values of the company, as well as their success.
How can I increase my chances of getting an apprenticeship? ›
To increase your chances of getting an apprenticeship, it's important to start your search early, be proactive, and apply for multiple opportunities. It's also important to research the companies you're interested in and to make sure your application stands out.
Why am I interested in apprenticeship? ›
Apprenticeships are an excellent way to gain access to a company or a sector you want to work in, and if you do a really good job and become a valued member of the team it will put you in a strong position when there are permanent job opportunities. Learn transferable skills.
What are 3 things you can learn in an apprenticeship? ›
10 skills for apprenticeships
- Interpersonal skills. Apprentices work alongside colleagues at many different levels, including both junior and senior members of staff. ...
- Independence. Apprentices work under supervision most of the time, but as an apprenticeship progresses, apprentices work more independently. ...
- Teamwork.
Relating your existing skills with the apprenticeship you're applying for can help a recruiter see how you can be useful in the position. When answering, explain both your strengths and weaknesses and describe the areas you can improve through the apprenticeship.
What do I hope my apprenticeship will help me to achieve in my career in the short and long term? ›
You'll gain invaluable experience
Experience is everything when it comes to getting a job and employers often value relevant experience over having qualifications alone. Doing an apprenticeship shows that you can work in a professional environment, both as part of a team and as an individual.
What are the three most important character traits or attributes of an apprentice? ›
5 Top traits of a successful apprentice
- Adaptability. Embrace change and be open to learning new things. ...
- Initiative. There are plenty of opportunities for growth at Atkins. ...
- Responsibility. Take ownership of your work and commitments. ...
- Curiosity. ...
- Communication. ...
- Find apprenticeships at Atkins.
Learn transferable skills. As apprentices do real jobs in real work environments, you gain the softer skills that will help you throughout your career and make you more confident such as team working, effective communication and problem solving. Enjoy what you do.
What attracted you to apply for an apprenticeship role at Amazon? ›
“I was attracted by the mix of theory and practice at Amazon, a large international company that's still growing. The things you learn in university can be put into practice almost immediately. It also works the other way around. You can analyze and discuss your practical experiences at university.”
What questions to ask at the end of an apprenticeship interview? ›
Popular apprentice questions to ask employer at the end of the interview include: “How much time will I spend with the learning provider?”, “What's the company culture like?”, or “What are the main goals of the company?”. This will show you are interested.
Why do you want to do an engineering apprenticeship? ›
Here are some of the main benefits to an engineering apprenticeship. Engineering is a varied and challenging industry, and will really allow you to show off your creative flair. You'll learn how to do everything from designing new pieces and parts for computers to helping build the parts yourself.
